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Ginger Gold Mystery #6
Murder at Kensington Gardens
Murder's not a walk in the park . . .
War widow fashionista, Ginger Gold, makes a gruesome discovery while walking her dog, Boss, through Kensington Gardens. A woman of ill-repute is dead.
When Chief Inspector Basil Reed becomes a prime suspect, the blustery and often times pigheaded Superintendent Morris pulls him off the case. Ginger's not about to be pushed around by the superintendent, and investigates the case on her own--taking her into the spicy world of burlesque dancers--despite his warnings: if she doesn't butt out, she'll be arrested for impeding a police investigation.
Despite Ginger and Basil's strained friendship, they agree to work together to find the killer. It's a proposition neither one may survive.
270 pages, ebook
First published March 20, 2018
2290 people are currently reading
802 people want to read
About the author
Lee Strauss
129 books2,339 followersFor fans of Golden Age who-dun-its ~ from a USA TODAY Bestselling author!
You'll adore Lady Gold from the acclaimed Ginger Gold Mysteries series, and the spin of series, Higgins & Hawke.
Look for the connected 1950s era Rosa Reed Mysteries.
NEW ~ The Velvet Spy ~ The Wartime Journal of Ginger Gold
For more info visit: leestraussbooks.com
You'll adore Lady Gold from the acclaimed Ginger Gold Mysteries series, and the spin of series, Higgins & Hawke.
Look for the connected 1950s era Rosa Reed Mysteries.
NEW ~ The Velvet Spy ~ The Wartime Journal of Ginger Gold
For more info visit: leestraussbooks.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 202 reviews
March 27, 2020
Life for Ginger Gold is good. She has her family close, her boutique dress shop is doing fine, and her relationship with Chief Inspector Basil Reed is moving ahead since Basil has finally filed for divorce from his estranged wife, Amelia. While walking her dog in the park, Ginger stumbles across the body of a woman whom she recognizes. The woman seems to have died from a bite from a poisonous snake. Superintendent Morris will not let neither Basil nor Ginger work on this case, but that doesn't stop them from investigating.
This is the sixth book in the Ginger Gold Mysteries. The woman that was murdered worked as a burlesque dancer. Ginger goes undercover as a dancer to see what she information she can find. This was a solid mystery with several suspects. I listened to the audiobook. As usual, the narrator did an outstanding job. My rating: 4 Stars.
This is the sixth book in the Ginger Gold Mysteries. The woman that was murdered worked as a burlesque dancer. Ginger goes undercover as a dancer to see what she information she can find. This was a solid mystery with several suspects. I listened to the audiobook. As usual, the narrator did an outstanding job. My rating: 4 Stars.
October 29, 2018
Murder at Kensington Gardens by Lee Strauss was another fast paced cozy mystery set in London after the First World War. Ms. Strauss descriptive writing of London, fashion and the characters always makes me feel like I am right there witnessing all of the action. I do love this series and only put the book down when life insists on interrupting me. I'm on to the next book in the series because the final Ginger Gold mystery is due out soon.
November 14, 2020
I love the Ginger Gold series and this book was no exception. Ginger takes her little dog, Boss, to Kensington Gardens for a walk and discovers a body. Not just any body but the body of her love Basil's estranged wife. Basil is with Scotland Yard and of course he can't investigate this case at least officially. Ginger and Basil get themselves into some scrapes trying to figure out who the killer is with some help from some friends.
I am so looking forward to the next book. Lee Strauss left me hanging again.
I am so looking forward to the next book. Lee Strauss left me hanging again.
March 19, 2018
Murder at the Mortuary has been my favorite book in this series because of the complex issues that book tackles, and it earned a 5 Star Rating. Although this is a good follow up to that, it lacks the complexity of its predecessor.
This book deals far more with the relationship between Ginger Gold and Inspector Basil Reed. In this one, Basil’s soon to be ex-wife is murdered and Ginger finds the body. Both Basil and Ginger have been warned by Basil’s boss to stay off the case, but of course they cannot. It’s not too long before Basil is arrested for his wife’s murder.
It’s been discovered that Emilia Reed has been working in a burlesque house as a dancer under a stage name, as none of the dancers use their real names. Emilia Reed has died from a poisonous snake bite. Ginger goes to the club undercover as a French dancer, as she feels strongly that the reason behind Emilia’s death will be discovered there. Although Basil is strongly against her going there, he can do nothing to stop her from behind bars. Fortunately both her sister-in-law, Felicity, and her friend Haley are there for back-up. Things get very interesting when they learn that another dancer uses a snake in her act.
There are plenty of likely suspects and various plot twists. As usual, Ginger solves the case in her own, unique manner. The way the book ends with more startling surprises leaves me eagerly anticipating the next one in the series.
The character development continues to be one of the strengths of this Lee Strauss series. The interesting and likable ongoing characters continue to evolve through each book in the series, although none of them are as prominent as Ginger and Basil in this one. I am particularly impressed with the various skills Ginger Gold has developed and displays. She can easily take care of herself, yet she has a heart of gold.
Lee Strauss’ attention to detail in describing what the characters are wearing including their hairstyles adds to the authenticity of this period series. Her writing style and the pace of these books makes them a very enjoyable read.
I appreciate the author sharing an electronic ARC in return for a fair review.
This book deals far more with the relationship between Ginger Gold and Inspector Basil Reed. In this one, Basil’s soon to be ex-wife is murdered and Ginger finds the body. Both Basil and Ginger have been warned by Basil’s boss to stay off the case, but of course they cannot. It’s not too long before Basil is arrested for his wife’s murder.
It’s been discovered that Emilia Reed has been working in a burlesque house as a dancer under a stage name, as none of the dancers use their real names. Emilia Reed has died from a poisonous snake bite. Ginger goes to the club undercover as a French dancer, as she feels strongly that the reason behind Emilia’s death will be discovered there. Although Basil is strongly against her going there, he can do nothing to stop her from behind bars. Fortunately both her sister-in-law, Felicity, and her friend Haley are there for back-up. Things get very interesting when they learn that another dancer uses a snake in her act.
There are plenty of likely suspects and various plot twists. As usual, Ginger solves the case in her own, unique manner. The way the book ends with more startling surprises leaves me eagerly anticipating the next one in the series.
The character development continues to be one of the strengths of this Lee Strauss series. The interesting and likable ongoing characters continue to evolve through each book in the series, although none of them are as prominent as Ginger and Basil in this one. I am particularly impressed with the various skills Ginger Gold has developed and displays. She can easily take care of herself, yet she has a heart of gold.
Lee Strauss’ attention to detail in describing what the characters are wearing including their hairstyles adds to the authenticity of this period series. Her writing style and the pace of these books makes them a very enjoyable read.
I appreciate the author sharing an electronic ARC in return for a fair review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 19, 2021
Lady Ginger Gold takes her dog "Boss" (short for Boston) for a walk in Kensington Gardens only to discover the body of woman under one of the bushes. The woman wasn't dressed for the weather (in fact, wasn't dressed quite up to standards) and Ginger is appalled to see that body is that of Emelia Reed--the estranged wife of Chief Inspector Basil Reed. Emelia has what looks like a snake bite on her neck and it winds up that she did, indeed, die from snake venom. Basil and Ginger barely get started investigating the murder before Superintendent Morris, Basil's dimwitted, slightly envious superior, decides that Basil, as the victim's husband, is the obvious suspect.
Before Basil was arrested, he and Ginger had discovered that Emelia had been working as a burlesque dancer in one of the less reputable clubs. In order to find the real killer and clear Basil's name, Ginger goes undercover at the club--assuming a French identity which served her well in her secret service work during the war. "Antoinette" becomes popular with her French maid routine and manages to dig up evidence that several people might have had motive to eliminate "Destiny" (Emelia's pseudonym at the club). There's the fact that she was blackmailing a few of the club workers, as well as an American ambassador. There's also the rivalry between her and her fellow dancers--for the best position in the dance line-up as well as for the attentions of certain members of the regular audience. But when some of the suspects also wind up dead from snake bites, it begins to look like Ginger has been following the wrong leads. What clues has she missed?
Things are beginning to wear a bit thin in this series...the on again/off again nature of the relationship between Ginger and Basil for one thing. In the last book, Basil's wife had once again had an affair and Basil had decided to finally divorce her--he'd given her a second chance and tried to make things work, but Emelia let him down again. He and Ginger started seeing one another more seriously and it looked like the course of true love was straightening out. And then Emelia gets murdered and we're back to square one--Ginger doubting that Basil really loves her. Not understanding that the man could honestly be upset and mourn the death of a wife he'd decided to divorce. To doubt that he ever had feelings for Ginger at all. Honestly? It doesn't help that Basil goes all distant and then declares at the end of the book that he's been put on leave and so he's going to go to South Africa and "find himself" (my words, not his). I'm getting a bit tired of it all.
In addition to my exasperation with the romance on the agenda, there's Strauss's insistence that there simple must be a chattering, immature young woman in Ginger's life to make things difficult. We had Felicia (Ginger's sister-in-law), but just when we get Felicia settled down a bit and showing some maturity Strauss decides to thrust Ginger's half-sister Louisa on us. Louisa is your stereotypical brash American--loud, blurting out everything that pops into her head, and she makes Felicia at her most annoying look like a saint. And Louisa was only in evidence in the last few pages of the book. I can't wait until the next book where she's bound to be more prominent.... [sarcasm font on full]
The mystery is decent (though I'm not sure I'm completely on board with the logic of making Emelia a burlesque dancer and a blackmailer--but once you accept that's just the way it is...). I did spot the villain of the piece (there were a couple of clues dropped that I actually spotted), but I missed what the motive was. Perhaps it was explained and I just wasn't paying proper attention to the audio novel at the right moment...Anyway, not the best of the series, but I will keep going to see if we ever get Basil and Ginger together and leave them together. ★★ and 3/4. (rounded up here)
First posted on my blog My Reader's Block. Please request permission before reposting portions of review. Thanks.
Before Basil was arrested, he and Ginger had discovered that Emelia had been working as a burlesque dancer in one of the less reputable clubs. In order to find the real killer and clear Basil's name, Ginger goes undercover at the club--assuming a French identity which served her well in her secret service work during the war. "Antoinette" becomes popular with her French maid routine and manages to dig up evidence that several people might have had motive to eliminate "Destiny" (Emelia's pseudonym at the club). There's the fact that she was blackmailing a few of the club workers, as well as an American ambassador. There's also the rivalry between her and her fellow dancers--for the best position in the dance line-up as well as for the attentions of certain members of the regular audience. But when some of the suspects also wind up dead from snake bites, it begins to look like Ginger has been following the wrong leads. What clues has she missed?
Things are beginning to wear a bit thin in this series...the on again/off again nature of the relationship between Ginger and Basil for one thing. In the last book, Basil's wife had once again had an affair and Basil had decided to finally divorce her--he'd given her a second chance and tried to make things work, but Emelia let him down again. He and Ginger started seeing one another more seriously and it looked like the course of true love was straightening out. And then Emelia gets murdered and we're back to square one--Ginger doubting that Basil really loves her. Not understanding that the man could honestly be upset and mourn the death of a wife he'd decided to divorce. To doubt that he ever had feelings for Ginger at all. Honestly? It doesn't help that Basil goes all distant and then declares at the end of the book that he's been put on leave and so he's going to go to South Africa and "find himself" (my words, not his). I'm getting a bit tired of it all.
In addition to my exasperation with the romance on the agenda, there's Strauss's insistence that there simple must be a chattering, immature young woman in Ginger's life to make things difficult. We had Felicia (Ginger's sister-in-law), but just when we get Felicia settled down a bit and showing some maturity Strauss decides to thrust Ginger's half-sister Louisa on us. Louisa is your stereotypical brash American--loud, blurting out everything that pops into her head, and she makes Felicia at her most annoying look like a saint. And Louisa was only in evidence in the last few pages of the book. I can't wait until the next book where she's bound to be more prominent.... [sarcasm font on full]
The mystery is decent (though I'm not sure I'm completely on board with the logic of making Emelia a burlesque dancer and a blackmailer--but once you accept that's just the way it is...). I did spot the villain of the piece (there were a couple of clues dropped that I actually spotted), but I missed what the motive was. Perhaps it was explained and I just wasn't paying proper attention to the audio novel at the right moment...Anyway, not the best of the series, but I will keep going to see if we ever get Basil and Ginger together and leave them together. ★★ and 3/4. (rounded up here)
First posted on my blog My Reader's Block. Please request permission before reposting portions of review. Thanks.
April 13, 2025
The writing is simple and straightforward. The characters are simple and straightforward. There is nothing here to stimulate the intellect.
March 17, 2018
I was slightly disappointed with this sixth outing for Lady Ginger Gold and friends. Number five was so good but this one failed to catch fire for me.
The plot centres round the murder of a well-established character in circumstances that I found unbelievably unlikely. The perpetrator was not difficult to spot and the detection here was pretty perfunctory.
Ginger’s relationship with Basil Reed, as well as her reaction to the situation he found himself in, is irritating and no longer intriguing.
The writing was rather formulaic and many of the other characters, such as Haley, who add great interest, were too much in the background. The historical setting, which was well-done in the previous entry in the series, also faltered rather.
I trust that this is merely a blip, and I realise I may be alone in my reservations.
I do look forward to reading “Murder at St George’s Church”.
Thank you to the author for the digital ARC.
The plot centres round the murder of a well-established character in circumstances that I found unbelievably unlikely. The perpetrator was not difficult to spot and the detection here was pretty perfunctory.
Ginger’s relationship with Basil Reed, as well as her reaction to the situation he found himself in, is irritating and no longer intriguing.
The writing was rather formulaic and many of the other characters, such as Haley, who add great interest, were too much in the background. The historical setting, which was well-done in the previous entry in the series, also faltered rather.
I trust that this is merely a blip, and I realise I may be alone in my reservations.
I do look forward to reading “Murder at St George’s Church”.
Thank you to the author for the digital ARC.
November 30, 2018
I picked up the first in this series on a whim during a Kindle sale and I am SO glad that I did. 6 books on and it's still as delightful as the first and I am very much looking forward to future books in this series.
I highly recommend this series to anyone who enjoys cozy mysteries, quick reads or historical fiction!
I highly recommend this series to anyone who enjoys cozy mysteries, quick reads or historical fiction!
August 19, 2020
I love historical mysteries and Lee Strauss is my favorite author in this genre! Ginger Gold is such a great heroine and someone who, if I lived in her time period, I would want as my best friend. In this mystery, we find Ginger discovering a body in Kensington Gardens. Brilliantly written and just the escape I needed. Highly recommend!
My Rating: 5+ stars
My Rating: 5+ stars
January 6, 2020
Ginger isn't looking for murder to solve but stumbles upon one while walking Boss in Kensington Garden. Not only does Ginger know this murder victim and can identify them to the Scotland Yard, but this one has a connection to Chief Inspector Basil Reed. Because of Basil's connection to the deceased Superintendent Morris doesn't allow Basil to work the case and he tells Ginger to stay out of it too. (Like that's going to work)
When Ginger finds out the deceased, who died from a bite from a poisonous snake, had been working as a burlesque dancer, she decides to go undercover to find out more. Seems she did this kind of thing while working in the secret service during the war. Of course Ginger's best friend Haley and sister-in-law Felicia are there to be her back up. Seems Basil's soon-to-be ex-wife had a bit of a secret life, and what a secret life it was. Of course after a few surprises and twists Ginger solves the case before the police do, which makes Superintendent Morris none too happy.
Lots of character updates in this one. Scout is still living with Ginger and doing well. Matilda, the pregnant, unmarried medical student is still living with Ginger much to the chagrin and dismay of Grandma Ambrosia, who's still the same. Thankfully Felicia seems to have matured a bit, but Ginger's half-sister Louisa has arrived and is a bit of a whirlwind. Ginger and Basil who seemed to be getting on better since he decided to divorce his philandering wife are going through a bit of a rough patch to put it mildly. Seems we'll have to wait for the next book to find out what's going on there.
As usual I love the descriptions of Ginger's wardrobe. Of course I couldn't figure out who did it--I rarely do. Of all Ginger's adventures this one makes me more curious than ever to find out what she did during the war. What did she do that would require her to learn burlesque dancing?
Although I own this book I listened to this as an audiobook from the library, and loved the narrator. She does a wonderful job with all of the accents Ginger uses in this one--French, British, and American--along with all voices for the other characters, and there are quite a few of them.
When Ginger finds out the deceased, who died from a bite from a poisonous snake, had been working as a burlesque dancer, she decides to go undercover to find out more. Seems she did this kind of thing while working in the secret service during the war. Of course Ginger's best friend Haley and sister-in-law Felicia are there to be her back up. Seems Basil's soon-to-be ex-wife had a bit of a secret life, and what a secret life it was. Of course after a few surprises and twists Ginger solves the case before the police do, which makes Superintendent Morris none too happy.
Lots of character updates in this one. Scout is still living with Ginger and doing well. Matilda, the pregnant, unmarried medical student is still living with Ginger much to the chagrin and dismay of Grandma Ambrosia, who's still the same. Thankfully Felicia seems to have matured a bit, but Ginger's half-sister Louisa has arrived and is a bit of a whirlwind. Ginger and Basil who seemed to be getting on better since he decided to divorce his philandering wife are going through a bit of a rough patch to put it mildly. Seems we'll have to wait for the next book to find out what's going on there.
As usual I love the descriptions of Ginger's wardrobe. Of course I couldn't figure out who did it--I rarely do. Of all Ginger's adventures this one makes me more curious than ever to find out what she did during the war. What did she do that would require her to learn burlesque dancing?
Although I own this book I listened to this as an audiobook from the library, and loved the narrator. She does a wonderful job with all of the accents Ginger uses in this one--French, British, and American--along with all voices for the other characters, and there are quite a few of them.
November 21, 2023
The "love story" is getting on my nerves after a while, but the mystery is okay.
March 16, 2018
Lee Strauss has done it again! This is a phenomenal series that keeps you glued page after page. You just can't put it down. The protagonist, Lady Ginger Gold not only has a big heart and helps whomever she can, like the wards she took into her estate to help, Scout the young street urchin and Matilda a medical student who was in the family way and alone. All this to the chagrin of her proper grandmother, Dowager, Lady Ambrosia Gold. While walking her dog, Boss, Ginger happens upon a body lying on the grass under a bush. Much to her dismay, it turns out Ginger recognized the victim and the connection to Basil. Things were going so well between Ginger and Basil and now this. Trying to hide Basil from the site, she gets a constable to come over to help. Of course the constable calls Superintendent Morris who really shows his dislike of Lady Gold, mostly because she had solved murders before he was able to and showed him up! Since the murdered woman had a connection to Basil, Morris puts him on leave and tells both Basil and Lady Gold to stay away from the investigation or face consequences. Well of course they can't and vow to get to the bottom of the murder. Their investigation leads them to many different places with many different characters including the hidden life of Basil's ex. With the help of Felicia, Ginger's sister-in-law and Haley, working as an intern with the coroner things get serious. With a lot of humor, strange events, and many red herrings we are taken on an adventure you just can't stop reading. I can't wait for the next Ginger Gold book in the series since the author leaves us with some very intriguing cliff-hangers! I receive and ARC from the author but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own!
April 1, 2020
Kindle freebie at time of download/Kindle Unlimited
Lady Ginger Gold's private detective business has been successful of late. Thank goodness the crimes were all small. How horrid if she were to investigate another murder! Her ward Scout seems to be settling in fine and her relationship with Basil doing well-when she forgets to feel guilty about Daniel. While out walking Boss one morning, Ginger stumbles across another dead body. The woman appeared to be in some sort of burlesque costume so likely not someone Ginger knew but when Ginger gets a look at the woman's face she is shocked to discover the victim is none other than Emelia, Basil's estranged wife. Basil is shocked and devastated. He's even more upset when Superintendent Morris has him forcibly removed from the case. Even Ginger is banned from investigating but that doesn't stop her. Basil encourages Ginger's investigation until it takes her to a seedy burlesque theater. Ginger refuses to take orders from any man and plows on. When more people end up dead, Ginger needs to put the clues together fast before she's next!
This is the best of the mysteries to this point. The story is filled with a bit too much fluff leading up to Murder at St. George's Church which I have already read so I just skipped over that. The mystery sounds dark because of the identity of the victim but it's still cozy. I did not put the clues together although the murderer did seem like a likely candidate to me. The reason was also not entirely a surprise. I loved the resolution to the mystery. I did not love the Ginger-Basil relationship drama but I feel they both need this to work through their feelings. I already know the outcome so I wasn't too upset by it.
Ginger is growing on me as a heroine. At first I thought these books were too light without substance and I was more interested in Ginger's war work. Now I think Ginger is growing and becoming more intelligent as her business grows. I like her compassion for those less fortunate than her and of course her devotion to Boss. I could do without Scout but he lightens the mood of the story. Basil is too brooding here. Of course he's affected by the death of his wife even if they were estranged and soon to be divorced. Even if she cheated on him, she had some qualities that made him want to marry her in the first place and they shared a history together. Ginger understands this but neither of them are good at expressing their feelings. Plus, she's still mourning Daniel. They need to get over their previous relationships in order to move on.
I really felt Felicia came into her own in this story too. She's less flighty and really steps up to help Ginger. Haley's is still in London and she is a great friend. I don't understand her interest in dead bodies and found her descriptions a little gruesome. Matilda Hanson is also staying at Hartigan House. I feel sorry for her to be ashamed of herself. She's a virtual prisoner in Ginger's home. I knew the outcome of her plot but it was tough to read. Superintendent Morris is as mean as ever but I don't think he's THAT stupid. He was one step behind Ginger the whole time.
Emelia sounds like she was a troubled young woman and her relationship with Basil was doomed from the start. I wanted a little more to her story about why she did what she did. I wasn't satisfied with the excuse she was just a nosy, wild child. Who could have killed her? It turns out that Emelia was a burlesque dancer at a slightly seedy club known as The North Star. Could her death have been caused by jealousy? Ginger doesn't suspect Mr. Sayer, the club manager, to be interested in women. He's grumpy and dispassionate. Ginger discovers some not so hidden secrets about the club and worries Mr. Sayer is in big trouble. Could Emelia's death have been a warning? Cindy, another performer, is not very nice. She dances with a snake! Who does that?! Cindy is grouchy around Ginger and doesn't seem to be friendly with the other girls. She's in it for herself to make money and meet men. Could she have been jealous of a new arrival who stole the man Cindy wanted for herself? Ginger has many reasons to suspect Cindy but I think she acts too soon without enough evidence. Sorcha and Nuala, two Irish lasses who perform together are an interesting duo. Are they a couple? They share a flat and work together but also seem to be eager to meet rich men. I didn't find them all that appealing but they were friendlier to Ginger than Cindy was.
The men who pick up women at the North Star are also under suspicion, mainly Jonathon Phillips, an American diplomat. He's just awful! He's the type who takes what he wants when he wants it and doesn't care. He doesn't see these performers as women with minds, just their bodies and he thinks their bodies are available for his pleasure. Despicable. Bill, the barman, makes me nervous. He's observant and has the opportunity to ply people with enough alcohol so their senses are dulled. This leaves them open to being taken advantage of. I also suspect Ginger's shop assistant Dorothy. Emelia "admired" Dorothy's pin (likely stole it) and Dorothy isn't all she seems. She acts like a meek and mousy spinster by day but she has a hidden side to her.
The story is clean but there are descriptions of some of the burlesque dances. Nothing shocking by today's standards though, except for one brief fan dance.
I recommend this series to cozy mystery lovers and fans of the TV series Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries. It's light and fun for escapist reading. This was just the thing I needed after the doom and gloom news stories of Monday 3/30.
Lady Ginger Gold's private detective business has been successful of late. Thank goodness the crimes were all small. How horrid if she were to investigate another murder! Her ward Scout seems to be settling in fine and her relationship with Basil doing well-when she forgets to feel guilty about Daniel. While out walking Boss one morning, Ginger stumbles across another dead body. The woman appeared to be in some sort of burlesque costume so likely not someone Ginger knew but when Ginger gets a look at the woman's face she is shocked to discover the victim is none other than Emelia, Basil's estranged wife. Basil is shocked and devastated. He's even more upset when Superintendent Morris has him forcibly removed from the case. Even Ginger is banned from investigating but that doesn't stop her. Basil encourages Ginger's investigation until it takes her to a seedy burlesque theater. Ginger refuses to take orders from any man and plows on. When more people end up dead, Ginger needs to put the clues together fast before she's next!
This is the best of the mysteries to this point. The story is filled with a bit too much fluff leading up to Murder at St. George's Church which I have already read so I just skipped over that. The mystery sounds dark because of the identity of the victim but it's still cozy. I did not put the clues together although the murderer did seem like a likely candidate to me. The reason was also not entirely a surprise. I loved the resolution to the mystery. I did not love the Ginger-Basil relationship drama but I feel they both need this to work through their feelings. I already know the outcome so I wasn't too upset by it.
Ginger is growing on me as a heroine. At first I thought these books were too light without substance and I was more interested in Ginger's war work. Now I think Ginger is growing and becoming more intelligent as her business grows. I like her compassion for those less fortunate than her and of course her devotion to Boss. I could do without Scout but he lightens the mood of the story. Basil is too brooding here. Of course he's affected by the death of his wife even if they were estranged and soon to be divorced. Even if she cheated on him, she had some qualities that made him want to marry her in the first place and they shared a history together. Ginger understands this but neither of them are good at expressing their feelings. Plus, she's still mourning Daniel. They need to get over their previous relationships in order to move on.
I really felt Felicia came into her own in this story too. She's less flighty and really steps up to help Ginger. Haley's is still in London and she is a great friend. I don't understand her interest in dead bodies and found her descriptions a little gruesome. Matilda Hanson is also staying at Hartigan House. I feel sorry for her to be ashamed of herself. She's a virtual prisoner in Ginger's home. I knew the outcome of her plot but it was tough to read. Superintendent Morris is as mean as ever but I don't think he's THAT stupid. He was one step behind Ginger the whole time.
Emelia sounds like she was a troubled young woman and her relationship with Basil was doomed from the start. I wanted a little more to her story about why she did what she did. I wasn't satisfied with the excuse she was just a nosy, wild child. Who could have killed her? It turns out that Emelia was a burlesque dancer at a slightly seedy club known as The North Star. Could her death have been caused by jealousy? Ginger doesn't suspect Mr. Sayer, the club manager, to be interested in women. He's grumpy and dispassionate. Ginger discovers some not so hidden secrets about the club and worries Mr. Sayer is in big trouble. Could Emelia's death have been a warning? Cindy, another performer, is not very nice. She dances with a snake! Who does that?! Cindy is grouchy around Ginger and doesn't seem to be friendly with the other girls. She's in it for herself to make money and meet men. Could she have been jealous of a new arrival who stole the man Cindy wanted for herself? Ginger has many reasons to suspect Cindy but I think she acts too soon without enough evidence. Sorcha and Nuala, two Irish lasses who perform together are an interesting duo. Are they a couple? They share a flat and work together but also seem to be eager to meet rich men. I didn't find them all that appealing but they were friendlier to Ginger than Cindy was.
The men who pick up women at the North Star are also under suspicion, mainly Jonathon Phillips, an American diplomat. He's just awful! He's the type who takes what he wants when he wants it and doesn't care. He doesn't see these performers as women with minds, just their bodies and he thinks their bodies are available for his pleasure. Despicable. Bill, the barman, makes me nervous. He's observant and has the opportunity to ply people with enough alcohol so their senses are dulled. This leaves them open to being taken advantage of. I also suspect Ginger's shop assistant Dorothy. Emelia "admired" Dorothy's pin (likely stole it) and Dorothy isn't all she seems. She acts like a meek and mousy spinster by day but she has a hidden side to her.
The story is clean but there are descriptions of some of the burlesque dances. Nothing shocking by today's standards though, except for one brief fan dance.
I recommend this series to cozy mystery lovers and fans of the TV series Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries. It's light and fun for escapist reading. This was just the thing I needed after the doom and gloom news stories of Monday 3/30.
July 9, 2018
Amusing, Easy to Read
Another easy read from Lee Strauss, with all the characters we have come to know and love from the previous novels in this series. I found this one a little more preposterous: Lady Ginger Gold is an amazing woman, but really, performing at a moment’s notice in a vaudeville act? That seemed a bit much, even for Ginger. The mystery in the story was mildly entertaining, but chiefly it’s the interactions among the characters that I find amusing and interesting. I’m moving on to the next one in the series.
Another easy read from Lee Strauss, with all the characters we have come to know and love from the previous novels in this series. I found this one a little more preposterous: Lady Ginger Gold is an amazing woman, but really, performing at a moment’s notice in a vaudeville act? That seemed a bit much, even for Ginger. The mystery in the story was mildly entertaining, but chiefly it’s the interactions among the characters that I find amusing and interesting. I’m moving on to the next one in the series.
February 16, 2020
The Ginger Gold mysteries are quick, fun reads. Not the best books ever written, but certainly not the worst. An enjoyable, guilty pleasure.
This one, as usual, was fast-paced which I like. I reduced the rating by a star, however, because I thought the whole story line with Emelia Reed ending up as a burlesque performer was a little far-fetched. Was this character quirk added so the reader (as well as Ginger and Basil) have another reason to dislike Emelia? Just did not ring true (to me, at least).
This one, as usual, was fast-paced which I like. I reduced the rating by a star, however, because I thought the whole story line with Emelia Reed ending up as a burlesque performer was a little far-fetched. Was this character quirk added so the reader (as well as Ginger and Basil) have another reason to dislike Emelia? Just did not ring true (to me, at least).
March 16, 2018
The world of Ginger Gold is never boring!
Lee Strauss does it again with another well-written, fast-paced mystery! She continues to add surprising new venues and develop characters in interesting ways.
In this book we get to see Ginger put her experiences during the war to good use in her new position as a private investigator. We see her character develop to show that she is definitely more than a pampered lady who is absorbed by fashion and society. She shows that she is a hero to be reckoned with, and startles the men around her at every turn.
She is not the only character showing development in this installment. Felicia in particular shows some growth from the self absorbed young woman we have gotten to know.
The mystery itself takes twists and turns that you have come to expect from the books in this series. And, without giving anything away, the surprising last chapter promises a new character to get to know (and to cause havoc in the lives of the Ladies Gold) and an upcoming wedding.
All in all, an excellent, fun read! Lee Strauss never disappoints.
Lee Strauss does it again with another well-written, fast-paced mystery! She continues to add surprising new venues and develop characters in interesting ways.
In this book we get to see Ginger put her experiences during the war to good use in her new position as a private investigator. We see her character develop to show that she is definitely more than a pampered lady who is absorbed by fashion and society. She shows that she is a hero to be reckoned with, and startles the men around her at every turn.
She is not the only character showing development in this installment. Felicia in particular shows some growth from the self absorbed young woman we have gotten to know.
The mystery itself takes twists and turns that you have come to expect from the books in this series. And, without giving anything away, the surprising last chapter promises a new character to get to know (and to cause havoc in the lives of the Ladies Gold) and an upcoming wedding.
All in all, an excellent, fun read! Lee Strauss never disappoints.
March 25, 2018
This series captivates me. Ginger is such a fascinating character. She's worldly, fashionable, a real Lady and knows how to handle to handle a weapon. And if that weren't enough, she's also beautiful and smart and has decided to become a private investigator. Pure charm!
Ginger is fearless as she investigates the murder at Kensington Gardens. The only difficulty is that the victim is the soon to be ex-wife of Basil Reed, her gentleman friend. Ginger manages to get herself into some very interesting situations. She knows how to go under cover in some very unique ways.
While this book is part of a series, you can easily read it as a stand alone, If you do, I highly suggest you go back to the beginning. Each book is as wonderful as the last. I am already eagerly awaiting the next book in the series. There is still much to know about Ginger.
I received an ARC of this book. The choice to read and review it was all mine.
Ginger is fearless as she investigates the murder at Kensington Gardens. The only difficulty is that the victim is the soon to be ex-wife of Basil Reed, her gentleman friend. Ginger manages to get herself into some very interesting situations. She knows how to go under cover in some very unique ways.
While this book is part of a series, you can easily read it as a stand alone, If you do, I highly suggest you go back to the beginning. Each book is as wonderful as the last. I am already eagerly awaiting the next book in the series. There is still much to know about Ginger.
I received an ARC of this book. The choice to read and review it was all mine.
August 21, 2020
I stopped reading these books when it became clear the author was turning the series into a turgid romance, but I was given this book during lockdown, so I thought I would give it another chance. I shouldn’t have, I really dislike Basil and you can’t get away from him in this book.
May 10, 2018
Lady Ginger Gold keeps things surprising as she investigates murders and solves them with quite a bit of pluck! This read did not disappoint!
March 15, 2020
Even though I had read the first book in this series and had not liked it very much, I decided to give this (#6) a chance. This was definitely worse and I didn't finish.
October 22, 2023
"What Grandmama doesn't know won't hurt her. Vampires are all the rage in London. People dress up at night and wander through Kensington Gardens to scare clandestine lovers!"
March 18, 2018
Another great read by Lee Strauss. I received my copy yesterday and could not put it down until I was finished. The writing flows and the story is paced well.
Set in London in the 1920s on a walk in Kensington Gardens Ginger finds a body. The murder method is unusual: a poisonous snake bite and there are many twists and turns and another murder or two before the murderer is apprehended. This time Ginger must go to Harrods and to the burlesque clubs to solve the case.
Lee Strauss has Ginger always dressed in the most stylish way. I love the descriptions of her gowns and hats.
Her description of Harrods was amazing.
As always the book ends with a cliffhanger.
Set in London in the 1920s on a walk in Kensington Gardens Ginger finds a body. The murder method is unusual: a poisonous snake bite and there are many twists and turns and another murder or two before the murderer is apprehended. This time Ginger must go to Harrods and to the burlesque clubs to solve the case.
Lee Strauss has Ginger always dressed in the most stylish way. I love the descriptions of her gowns and hats.
Her description of Harrods was amazing.
As always the book ends with a cliffhanger.
Read
January 5, 2021Chapter One
"Your wife isn't being unfaithful, Mr. Pattison." Mrs. Ginger Gold, also known as Lady Gold, produced photographs taken with her new camera. "She's been visiting her grandmother at St. Olave's Hospital."
"Well, ain't that a kettle of fish." Mr. Pattison, a slender middle-aged man with a soft belly and thinning hair, clearly was insecure with his younger wife. "The old bat never approved of our marriage. It was a nasty affair with harsh words spoken between us. She vowed never to speak to Mrs. Pattison again, and I'd forbidden the wife from further communication."
"It seems Mrs. Pattison wanted to set things right between them before her grandmother passes away. I hope you will go easy on her, Mr. Pattison. In my opinion, it shows a quality of character."
Mr. Pattison sighed. "I suppose you're right. It's certainly preferable to the alternative. Thank you for your exemplary service, Lady Gold."
Ginger accepted her payment and wished Mr. Pattison a good day. The spring weather—typically dreary and damp— offered a rare showing of the sun. Ginger enjoyed a drive through the streets of London in her new ivory Crossley motorcar. Her black and white Boston terrier slept on the soft red leather of the passenger seat, his ears pointing to the roof when Ginger opened the door.
"Another case solved, Bossy," she said as she slid in. "This private investigative work is going swimmingly."
Ginger had officially taken on the role of private investigator two months previously. Her first case had been a murder, and she was glad the ones that had kept her busy these last few weeks were far less serious. Domestic issues, lost items, missing persons. So far she had solved every one and in good time. Ginger acknowledged that working for the British secret service during the Great War had trained her well for such tasks.
Ginger arrived at St. George's Church just as her good friend, Reverend Oliver Hill, returned from a stroll through the parish gardens. The young vicar, a tall, lanky fellow with a ready smile, was only thirty-three. He jogged to the Crossley in order to open Ginger's door. His blue-green eyes sparkled as he greeted her. "Ginger, hello!"
Ginger placed her gloved hand in his and allowed him to assist her out of the motorcar. "Good afternoon, Oliver."
"So nice to see you," Oliver said with obvious joy. In the sun, his red hair rivalled Ginger’s. "What brings you to St. George's?"
"I'm hoping you can give me a bit of advice."
"I'd be delighted to try. Would you like to come in for tea? I believe Mrs. Davies has a pot ready."
"That would be splendid." Ginger called for her little dog. "You don't mind if Boss joins us?"
"Of course not. Boss is always welcome here."
St. George's Church, City of London, was an eighteenth-century structure built of limestone. It had a medium-sized chapel with a square tower instead of a steeple, an attached hall with a kitchen and other small rooms used for various purposes. Oliver, a bachelor, lived in the vicarage next door to the church. Ginger hadn't been inside Oliver's private quarters, but she expected they would be sparsely decorated and tidy, if she could go by Oliver's manners.
They walked along a stone path towards a side entrance through a small garden of cornflowers, yellow roses and red gerbera daisies.
"I dare say," Oliver said, looking skywards, "it's nice enough to have tea outdoors. At least until those clouds roll in."
"I know Boss is happy about the arrangement."
Oliver gave Mrs. Davies, the church's robust secretary and general manager, instructions and helped her to prepare a table outside. Oliver covered it with a white embroidered cloth and the church secretary added a vase of colourful tulips.
"They're lovely," Ginger said as she claimed a chair. Boss scampered blissfully across the garden and back, stopping to spin in a couple of circles, before tiring out and reclining at Ginger's feet.
Oliver laughed at the pup. "Poor thing doesn't have a tail to chase."
Mrs. Davies returned with a hot pot of tea accompanied by fresh crumpets.
"Those smell wonderful!" Ginger said.
"I baked them just this morning, madam."
"I can pour, Mrs. Davies," Oliver said kindly. Mrs. Davies nodded and returned to the kitchen.
Ginger sipped her tea, then said, "Any progress on your assignment?" Ginger's brow jumped as her lips tugged into a smile. Oliver's single status, while normally not an issue for most priests, had become a point of concern for the diocese as it had come to their attention that the single women in the parish were quite distracted. The recommendation, therefore, was for Oliver to find a wife and to do it soon.
Oliver smirked as he set his teacup down. "Well, there is a girl I'm fond of."
"Oh?" Ginger didn't want to pry, but was indeed curious. She hoped Oliver would confide in her. Waiting a moment, she let the silence between them prompt him. To her delight, he made her a confidante.
"Her name’s Mary Blythe. She works as a receptionist for a dentist. She's nice."
"Just nice?"
"Of course, she's more than nice. She's kind, good with children, and a good cook."
Ginger lowered her chin and stared at her friend. "I'm not sensing a certain jeune amour. Are you sure she's the one?"
"I think so. I like her."
"But are you in love with her?"
"I'm sure that will grow with time. She'd be a suitable vicar's wife."
Ginger held in the raspberry that formed at her lips.
"I'm not about to confirm anything yet," Oliver continued. "We're hardly courting."
"My advice is not to rush your decision," Ginger said gravely. "As you know, the sacrament of marriage isn't something to be taken lightly. The rest of your life could be a really long time."
"Yes, you are correct. I just wish the diocese would put their noses somewhere else. Maybe there is another lady I've yet to notice. Pray for me, Ginger, if you think of it. The whole matter is quite distressing if one dwells on it too much."
"Of course." Ginger slathered butter onto a crumpet and took a bite. "Delicious. Mrs. Davies is a master."
"I agree most heartily," Oliver said, wiping crumbs off his chin. "I'm blessed to have her at St. George’s. Anyway, enough about me. You said you'd like advice about something. How can I help?"
"Marvin Elliot will be in prison for a long time, and I'm not entirely sure how to help young Scout."
Ginger had met the orphan cousins Marvin and Scout Elliot on the SS Rosa when she crossed from Boston to England the previous summer. They both worked in steerage, and Scout had taken care of Boss in the kennel. Ginger had taken a shine to the cousins and once in England, often gave them small jobs to help them out financially—after all, they were too proud to accept charity. Unfortunately, Marvin had got involved with the wrong people, and Ginger had stepped in as Scout's guardian.
"I meant to ask about how the lad is faring in your care." Oliver's expression grew serious. "Forgive me."
Ginger waved the apology off. "He's doing well for the most part. Does his chores with fervour, loves Boss and my new gelding, Goldmine. The tutor says he's doing well with his studies. He's very keen on doing his very best and to please everyone."
"I'm not seeing the problem."
"That is the problem. He's only eleven yet sometimes he walks around like he's an old man with slumped shoulders and watery eyes. Marvin's criminal activities and incarceration weigh heavily on him."
"I see," Oliver said. "Perhaps he needs someone to talk to."
Ginger agreed. "I tell him all the time he can speak to me about Marvin, but he always shakes his head."
"He might need a man to bring it out of him. After all, he's lost the one man left in his life."
Ginger sipped her tea and considered Oliver's point. "You might be right. You don't mind seeing him?"
"Of course not! I miss the young lad. Under your tutelage, I believe he's going to grow into a fine and upright man."
Ginger smiled at this. "I hope so."
Ginger and Oliver arranged a time suitable to them both, and Ginger promised to get Clement to bring Scout over.
“Before I forget,” Oliver said, “our choir is in need of new members.” He grinned, “Preferably ones who can carry a tune. You have a lovely voice, Ginger. Would you consider joining?”
Ginger actually lived in the parish of Kensington, but she’d been making the journey to St. George’s on Sunday mornings ever since she and the vicar had struck up a friendship over the charity they’d started together. The Child Wellness Project had been set up to help children like Scout by providing meals and clothing and general aid.
“I do miss singing in a church choir,” Ginger said. “It’s been years. So, yes. I’d love to join.”
Oliver slapped his thighs. “Splendid!”
A telephone call came in for Oliver, so Ginger said her goodbyes and called for Boss to follow her to the Crossley.
Before starting the engine, Ginger checked her image in the rearview mirror. She smoothed out her red bob, re-enforcing the curls that looped under her high cheekbones, and straightened her mint-green turban hat. She fished through her handbag, retrieving her tangerine-blossom lipstick, applied the colour and smacked her lips together. Satisfied, she adjusted the mirror to its proper position.
If Ginger were simply returning home to Hartigan House, she wouldn't have bothered, but she was heading to Mayfair to see Basil Reed.
Her heart fluttered.
"Your wife isn't being unfaithful, Mr. Pattison." Mrs. Ginger Gold, also known as Lady Gold, produced photographs taken with her new camera. "She's been visiting her grandmother at St. Olave's Hospital."
"Well, ain't that a kettle of fish." Mr. Pattison, a slender middle-aged man with a soft belly and thinning hair, clearly was insecure with his younger wife. "The old bat never approved of our marriage. It was a nasty affair with harsh words spoken between us. She vowed never to speak to Mrs. Pattison again, and I'd forbidden the wife from further communication."
"It seems Mrs. Pattison wanted to set things right between them before her grandmother passes away. I hope you will go easy on her, Mr. Pattison. In my opinion, it shows a quality of character."
Mr. Pattison sighed. "I suppose you're right. It's certainly preferable to the alternative. Thank you for your exemplary service, Lady Gold."
Ginger accepted her payment and wished Mr. Pattison a good day. The spring weather—typically dreary and damp— offered a rare showing of the sun. Ginger enjoyed a drive through the streets of London in her new ivory Crossley motorcar. Her black and white Boston terrier slept on the soft red leather of the passenger seat, his ears pointing to the roof when Ginger opened the door.
"Another case solved, Bossy," she said as she slid in. "This private investigative work is going swimmingly."
Ginger had officially taken on the role of private investigator two months previously. Her first case had been a murder, and she was glad the ones that had kept her busy these last few weeks were far less serious. Domestic issues, lost items, missing persons. So far she had solved every one and in good time. Ginger acknowledged that working for the British secret service during the Great War had trained her well for such tasks.
Ginger arrived at St. George's Church just as her good friend, Reverend Oliver Hill, returned from a stroll through the parish gardens. The young vicar, a tall, lanky fellow with a ready smile, was only thirty-three. He jogged to the Crossley in order to open Ginger's door. His blue-green eyes sparkled as he greeted her. "Ginger, hello!"
Ginger placed her gloved hand in his and allowed him to assist her out of the motorcar. "Good afternoon, Oliver."
"So nice to see you," Oliver said with obvious joy. In the sun, his red hair rivalled Ginger’s. "What brings you to St. George's?"
"I'm hoping you can give me a bit of advice."
"I'd be delighted to try. Would you like to come in for tea? I believe Mrs. Davies has a pot ready."
"That would be splendid." Ginger called for her little dog. "You don't mind if Boss joins us?"
"Of course not. Boss is always welcome here."
St. George's Church, City of London, was an eighteenth-century structure built of limestone. It had a medium-sized chapel with a square tower instead of a steeple, an attached hall with a kitchen and other small rooms used for various purposes. Oliver, a bachelor, lived in the vicarage next door to the church. Ginger hadn't been inside Oliver's private quarters, but she expected they would be sparsely decorated and tidy, if she could go by Oliver's manners.
They walked along a stone path towards a side entrance through a small garden of cornflowers, yellow roses and red gerbera daisies.
"I dare say," Oliver said, looking skywards, "it's nice enough to have tea outdoors. At least until those clouds roll in."
"I know Boss is happy about the arrangement."
Oliver gave Mrs. Davies, the church's robust secretary and general manager, instructions and helped her to prepare a table outside. Oliver covered it with a white embroidered cloth and the church secretary added a vase of colourful tulips.
"They're lovely," Ginger said as she claimed a chair. Boss scampered blissfully across the garden and back, stopping to spin in a couple of circles, before tiring out and reclining at Ginger's feet.
Oliver laughed at the pup. "Poor thing doesn't have a tail to chase."
Mrs. Davies returned with a hot pot of tea accompanied by fresh crumpets.
"Those smell wonderful!" Ginger said.
"I baked them just this morning, madam."
"I can pour, Mrs. Davies," Oliver said kindly. Mrs. Davies nodded and returned to the kitchen.
Ginger sipped her tea, then said, "Any progress on your assignment?" Ginger's brow jumped as her lips tugged into a smile. Oliver's single status, while normally not an issue for most priests, had become a point of concern for the diocese as it had come to their attention that the single women in the parish were quite distracted. The recommendation, therefore, was for Oliver to find a wife and to do it soon.
Oliver smirked as he set his teacup down. "Well, there is a girl I'm fond of."
"Oh?" Ginger didn't want to pry, but was indeed curious. She hoped Oliver would confide in her. Waiting a moment, she let the silence between them prompt him. To her delight, he made her a confidante.
"Her name’s Mary Blythe. She works as a receptionist for a dentist. She's nice."
"Just nice?"
"Of course, she's more than nice. She's kind, good with children, and a good cook."
Ginger lowered her chin and stared at her friend. "I'm not sensing a certain jeune amour. Are you sure she's the one?"
"I think so. I like her."
"But are you in love with her?"
"I'm sure that will grow with time. She'd be a suitable vicar's wife."
Ginger held in the raspberry that formed at her lips.
"I'm not about to confirm anything yet," Oliver continued. "We're hardly courting."
"My advice is not to rush your decision," Ginger said gravely. "As you know, the sacrament of marriage isn't something to be taken lightly. The rest of your life could be a really long time."
"Yes, you are correct. I just wish the diocese would put their noses somewhere else. Maybe there is another lady I've yet to notice. Pray for me, Ginger, if you think of it. The whole matter is quite distressing if one dwells on it too much."
"Of course." Ginger slathered butter onto a crumpet and took a bite. "Delicious. Mrs. Davies is a master."
"I agree most heartily," Oliver said, wiping crumbs off his chin. "I'm blessed to have her at St. George’s. Anyway, enough about me. You said you'd like advice about something. How can I help?"
"Marvin Elliot will be in prison for a long time, and I'm not entirely sure how to help young Scout."
Ginger had met the orphan cousins Marvin and Scout Elliot on the SS Rosa when she crossed from Boston to England the previous summer. They both worked in steerage, and Scout had taken care of Boss in the kennel. Ginger had taken a shine to the cousins and once in England, often gave them small jobs to help them out financially—after all, they were too proud to accept charity. Unfortunately, Marvin had got involved with the wrong people, and Ginger had stepped in as Scout's guardian.
"I meant to ask about how the lad is faring in your care." Oliver's expression grew serious. "Forgive me."
Ginger waved the apology off. "He's doing well for the most part. Does his chores with fervour, loves Boss and my new gelding, Goldmine. The tutor says he's doing well with his studies. He's very keen on doing his very best and to please everyone."
"I'm not seeing the problem."
"That is the problem. He's only eleven yet sometimes he walks around like he's an old man with slumped shoulders and watery eyes. Marvin's criminal activities and incarceration weigh heavily on him."
"I see," Oliver said. "Perhaps he needs someone to talk to."
Ginger agreed. "I tell him all the time he can speak to me about Marvin, but he always shakes his head."
"He might need a man to bring it out of him. After all, he's lost the one man left in his life."
Ginger sipped her tea and considered Oliver's point. "You might be right. You don't mind seeing him?"
"Of course not! I miss the young lad. Under your tutelage, I believe he's going to grow into a fine and upright man."
Ginger smiled at this. "I hope so."
Ginger and Oliver arranged a time suitable to them both, and Ginger promised to get Clement to bring Scout over.
“Before I forget,” Oliver said, “our choir is in need of new members.” He grinned, “Preferably ones who can carry a tune. You have a lovely voice, Ginger. Would you consider joining?”
Ginger actually lived in the parish of Kensington, but she’d been making the journey to St. George’s on Sunday mornings ever since she and the vicar had struck up a friendship over the charity they’d started together. The Child Wellness Project had been set up to help children like Scout by providing meals and clothing and general aid.
“I do miss singing in a church choir,” Ginger said. “It’s been years. So, yes. I’d love to join.”
Oliver slapped his thighs. “Splendid!”
A telephone call came in for Oliver, so Ginger said her goodbyes and called for Boss to follow her to the Crossley.
Before starting the engine, Ginger checked her image in the rearview mirror. She smoothed out her red bob, re-enforcing the curls that looped under her high cheekbones, and straightened her mint-green turban hat. She fished through her handbag, retrieving her tangerine-blossom lipstick, applied the colour and smacked her lips together. Satisfied, she adjusted the mirror to its proper position.
If Ginger were simply returning home to Hartigan House, she wouldn't have bothered, but she was heading to Mayfair to see Basil Reed.
Her heart fluttered.
March 24, 2020
Murder at Kensington Gardens was the first book I've read by Lee Strauss. I found her to be a delightful writer who gives plenty of descriptions to help me picture all the scenes, like a movie in my head.
Ginger Gold is the kind of woman I'd enjoy having as a friend. She has a kind heart and is not afraid to buck the system to do what's right. Her caring for Scout and allowing him his dignity by not making him feel like a charity case, shows just how kind and loving she really is. Her taking in a "fallen woman," at a time when society would just as soon toss them on a trash heap, was a brave move. Grandmother Ambrosia let Ginger know just how displeased she was with Ginger's generosity.
The case itself has the added glitch that the victim is Basil's ex wife. The complicated feelings that come when death occurs, especially death by murder, cause Basil to behave in ways that cause Ginger to question her relationship with him. I actually felt somewhat irritated with Basil, but dealing with death of someone you've been close to is always complicated. There must have been good times and those are what often return when someone dies.
The story has many exciting twists and turns with poisonous snakes, risque dancing in a strip club, hints about Ginger's previous life as an agent during WW I. All in all, it's made me curious to find out more about Ginger. I'll need to read some of the earlier books and move on to the next one. I'm anxious to find what will happen with her half sister, who bounced, unexpectedly, into her home at the end of the book. Also, anxious to learn more about the handsome young vicar.
Ginger Gold is the kind of woman I'd enjoy having as a friend. She has a kind heart and is not afraid to buck the system to do what's right. Her caring for Scout and allowing him his dignity by not making him feel like a charity case, shows just how kind and loving she really is. Her taking in a "fallen woman," at a time when society would just as soon toss them on a trash heap, was a brave move. Grandmother Ambrosia let Ginger know just how displeased she was with Ginger's generosity.
The case itself has the added glitch that the victim is Basil's ex wife. The complicated feelings that come when death occurs, especially death by murder, cause Basil to behave in ways that cause Ginger to question her relationship with him. I actually felt somewhat irritated with Basil, but dealing with death of someone you've been close to is always complicated. There must have been good times and those are what often return when someone dies.
The story has many exciting twists and turns with poisonous snakes, risque dancing in a strip club, hints about Ginger's previous life as an agent during WW I. All in all, it's made me curious to find out more about Ginger. I'll need to read some of the earlier books and move on to the next one. I'm anxious to find what will happen with her half sister, who bounced, unexpectedly, into her home at the end of the book. Also, anxious to learn more about the handsome young vicar.
March 21, 2018
Kindle Unlimited, A little Agatha Christie, and some Miss Fisher {which can be also be found on video}. Know already did this review, but must have glitched or something becaue not showing.
Murder's not a walk in the park . . .War widow fashionista, Ginger Gold, makes a gruesome discovery while walking her dog, Boss, through Kensington Gardens. A woman of ill-repute is dead. When Chief Inspector Basil Reed becomes a prime suspect, the blustery and often times pigheaded Superintendent Morris pulls him off the case. Ginger’s not about to be pushed around by the superintendent, and investigates the case on her own—taking her into the spicy world of burlesque dancers—despite his warnings: if she doesn’t butt out, she’ll be arrested for impeding a police investigation. Despite Ginger and Basil’s strained friendship, they agree to work together to find the killer. It’s a proposition neither one may survive.
Book 1 - Murder on the SS Rosa (prequel novella)
Book 2 - Murder at Hartigan House
Book 3 - Murder at Bray Manor
Book 4 - Murder at Feathers & Flair
Book 5 - Murder at the Mortuary
Book 6 - Murder at Kensington Park
Book 7 - Murder at St. George's Church (TBA)
Perception Trilogy {0.5-3}, Nursery Rhyme suspense stories {short story I Spy with my Little Eye Books plus 4 more in series}, Clockwise series {5 plus a novella, time travel type}. Not only are the books available individually but also in various sets
Murder's not a walk in the park . . .War widow fashionista, Ginger Gold, makes a gruesome discovery while walking her dog, Boss, through Kensington Gardens. A woman of ill-repute is dead. When Chief Inspector Basil Reed becomes a prime suspect, the blustery and often times pigheaded Superintendent Morris pulls him off the case. Ginger’s not about to be pushed around by the superintendent, and investigates the case on her own—taking her into the spicy world of burlesque dancers—despite his warnings: if she doesn’t butt out, she’ll be arrested for impeding a police investigation. Despite Ginger and Basil’s strained friendship, they agree to work together to find the killer. It’s a proposition neither one may survive.
Book 1 - Murder on the SS Rosa (prequel novella)
Book 2 - Murder at Hartigan House
Book 3 - Murder at Bray Manor
Book 4 - Murder at Feathers & Flair
Book 5 - Murder at the Mortuary
Book 6 - Murder at Kensington Park
Book 7 - Murder at St. George's Church (TBA)
Perception Trilogy {0.5-3}, Nursery Rhyme suspense stories {short story I Spy with my Little Eye Books plus 4 more in series}, Clockwise series {5 plus a novella, time travel type}. Not only are the books available individually but also in various sets
March 27, 2018
Lady Ginger Gold’s life is going so well until she discovers a dead body in Kensington Gardens one spring morning. Working once again alongside Chief Inspector Basil Reed, her friend Haley Higgins, and, of course, her little dog, Boss, Ginger sets out to discover who killed the dead woman and why.
While this isn’t my favourite of Ginger Gold’s outings, there is still quite a bit of historical interest in the story as well as the murder mystery itself. We get to see Ginger in quite a different light from anything we’ve seen before as she enters the rather shady world of burlesque dancing. As always, there is a range of different characters and Mrs Strauss does well to present each one as a possible suspect for the murder. And, of course, there are plenty of strands to the story, so the reader doesn’t know which of them is actually going to lead to the killer and their motives.
As well as the mystery, there are developments in the storylines that have been ongoing throughout the series. We get to meet up with old friends again and there are one or two new ones who will no doubt feature in the next book. As I said, this isn’t my favourite book in the series but it’s still a perfectly enjoyable addition. I’m looking forward to seeing what life, or death, brings Ginger in her next outing!
I received a free copy of the book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
While this isn’t my favourite of Ginger Gold’s outings, there is still quite a bit of historical interest in the story as well as the murder mystery itself. We get to see Ginger in quite a different light from anything we’ve seen before as she enters the rather shady world of burlesque dancing. As always, there is a range of different characters and Mrs Strauss does well to present each one as a possible suspect for the murder. And, of course, there are plenty of strands to the story, so the reader doesn’t know which of them is actually going to lead to the killer and their motives.
As well as the mystery, there are developments in the storylines that have been ongoing throughout the series. We get to meet up with old friends again and there are one or two new ones who will no doubt feature in the next book. As I said, this isn’t my favourite book in the series but it’s still a perfectly enjoyable addition. I’m looking forward to seeing what life, or death, brings Ginger in her next outing!
I received a free copy of the book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
October 7, 2019
(3.5 stars)
The man grabbed her roughly by the arm. "We're not done."
...
As quick as lightning, Ginger swung her free fist under the man's arm and hammered his elbow. He cried out in pain.
"I'm so sorry, Mr. Phillips," Ginger said. "I lost my footing there."
The wit and sleuthing that were largely missing from the previous book was back in full force in book 6 of the Ginger Gold Mystery series. The stakes were high with Basil being a prime suspect, and it was interesting to have both Basil and Ginger working outside the law after Basil was benched by his boss.
Ginger gets to show off her array of accents and her ability to rock a disguise and new persona. Her investigative work was smart and well thought out. (Well, mostly...) Even though she is distracted by the complicated feelings between her and Basil, she maintains a level head despite being so closely linked to yet another murder. Basil was admittedly in a very difficult situation here and had a lot of emotions to process, but I feel he was acting a bit out of character. And the ending... Gah.
There is also a huge cliffhanger unrelated to Ginger and Basil's relationship, so that makes me look forward to the next one more! The supporting characters were great this time around. The houseful of ladies from many walks of life, Reverend Oliver Hill, Ginger's fellow dancers, and Scout all added a lot of substance to the story and made for an interesting read.
The man grabbed her roughly by the arm. "We're not done."
...
As quick as lightning, Ginger swung her free fist under the man's arm and hammered his elbow. He cried out in pain.
"I'm so sorry, Mr. Phillips," Ginger said. "I lost my footing there."
The wit and sleuthing that were largely missing from the previous book was back in full force in book 6 of the Ginger Gold Mystery series. The stakes were high with Basil being a prime suspect, and it was interesting to have both Basil and Ginger working outside the law after Basil was benched by his boss.
Ginger gets to show off her array of accents and her ability to rock a disguise and new persona. Her investigative work was smart and well thought out. (Well, mostly...) Even though she is distracted by the complicated feelings between her and Basil, she maintains a level head despite being so closely linked to yet another murder. Basil was admittedly in a very difficult situation here and had a lot of emotions to process, but I feel he was acting a bit out of character. And the ending... Gah.
There is also a huge cliffhanger unrelated to Ginger and Basil's relationship, so that makes me look forward to the next one more! The supporting characters were great this time around. The houseful of ladies from many walks of life, Reverend Oliver Hill, Ginger's fellow dancers, and Scout all added a lot of substance to the story and made for an interesting read.
March 11, 2020
Great read. I love this series and recommend it to one and all. It is interesting, has interesting characters, sometimes quirky, a taste of romance that does not overwhelm and a mind-teasing mystery. You will absolutely love Ginger, our heroine, who is not only beautiful, wonderfully fashionable, highly intelligent, but is multi-talented.
Some of the other characters are, to say the least, interesting. I know I can't stand Ambrosia, who should mind her tongue, considering she is living in and being supported by Ginger, who is, really, under no obligation to do so as she is the relative of her late husband, and the house they live in belongs to Ginger as it was her childhood home and her father bequeathed it to her. She could, essentially, be within her rights to ask her to leave at any time.
And then there is the beyond moronic Superintendent Morris who arrests Ginger for shooting a venomous snake that has just bitten and killed a woman. She is then subjected to incarceration in a mangy jail cell. She is later released as there was no validation for her arrest, but in the U.S., false arrest is not taken as lightly as it seems to be in England.
In any case, I look forward to the next and subsequent books in this series. Happy Reading!!!
Some of the other characters are, to say the least, interesting. I know I can't stand Ambrosia, who should mind her tongue, considering she is living in and being supported by Ginger, who is, really, under no obligation to do so as she is the relative of her late husband, and the house they live in belongs to Ginger as it was her childhood home and her father bequeathed it to her. She could, essentially, be within her rights to ask her to leave at any time.
And then there is the beyond moronic Superintendent Morris who arrests Ginger for shooting a venomous snake that has just bitten and killed a woman. She is then subjected to incarceration in a mangy jail cell. She is later released as there was no validation for her arrest, but in the U.S., false arrest is not taken as lightly as it seems to be in England.
In any case, I look forward to the next and subsequent books in this series. Happy Reading!!!
May 3, 2020
A woman is found dead in Kensington Gardens by Boss, Ginger Gold’s Boston terrier. The sight is grim but takes on another turn when Ginger recognizes the body as someone she is familiar with. The lady is a recent client at Gold’s dress shop and related to the man she is currently seeing.
Chief Inspector Basil Reed is removed from the case when it becomes known that the victim is Reed’s soon-to-be divorced wife. Things also take on a dim look when it is discovered what the ex-Mrs. Reed has been doing.
Not to be put off, Reed asks Ginger to help investigate what all has been going on in Mrs. Reed’s life and help find who is responsible for the murder. This takes the two into the world of burlesque night clubs and the people who work there and frequent them. With two more bodies turning up, it becomes apparent that it isn’t the nicest world and all is not fun and games.
Set in 1920s London, the flapper era, the action moves fast and steady. Though Ginger is part of the aristocracy, she frequently finds herself in other levels of society when she is investigating a case.
This is a fun cozy series to read. Ginger is independent in personality and financially, which gives her the freedom to move about, even though she is part of the upper class.
Chief Inspector Basil Reed is removed from the case when it becomes known that the victim is Reed’s soon-to-be divorced wife. Things also take on a dim look when it is discovered what the ex-Mrs. Reed has been doing.
Not to be put off, Reed asks Ginger to help investigate what all has been going on in Mrs. Reed’s life and help find who is responsible for the murder. This takes the two into the world of burlesque night clubs and the people who work there and frequent them. With two more bodies turning up, it becomes apparent that it isn’t the nicest world and all is not fun and games.
Set in 1920s London, the flapper era, the action moves fast and steady. Though Ginger is part of the aristocracy, she frequently finds herself in other levels of society when she is investigating a case.
This is a fun cozy series to read. Ginger is independent in personality and financially, which gives her the freedom to move about, even though she is part of the upper class.
January 23, 2021
Another fabulous book in the ginger gold series. I have to say it was very interesting to watch how respectable woman worked in a burlesque shop… And of course the victim of the murder that caused ginger to take a temporary job there was also interesting. You know that it had to happen in someway or another but kind of surprised that it happens like this… The only scene that I was really appalled by Lowes the animal emporium… I hate thinking about animals being raised in locked up like that and sold when they’re so cute and when they grow up to be unmanageable what happens to them? I mean honestly… It’s one thing to have a cat or a dog but a giraffe or a cheetah kitten? Seriously makes my stomach turn to think about it. Thankfully that did not encompass the majority or even a large significant portion of block. But it was the one thing that really turned me off. Other than that of course the writing was great and the characters were wonderful. I definitely didn’t see the ending coming or know who the killer was or why. I normally don’t jump in to the next book in a series right away but I’m going to for this one.
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