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Ginger Gold Mystery #7
Murder at St. George's Church
Weddings can be murder
Romance is in the air for the delightful Reverend Oliver Hill. Unfortunately, the choir rehearsal for the wedding ends abruptly with the sudden and disturbing appearance of a body.
War widow fashionista Ginger Gold is determined to find the killer even if it means working with the dashing, yet exasperating Chief Inspector Basil Reed, but only in her professional capacity as a private investigator. Like they say: once burnt, twice shy.
Basil has his work cut out for him if he wants to solve this case and win back Ginger’s heart.
He’s up for the challenge.
207 pages, ebook
First published January 1, 2018
1588 people are currently reading
464 people want to read
About the author
Lee Strauss
130 books2,343 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 143 reviews
April 10, 2020
Lady Ginger Gold is happy to join the local church choir. They are at St. George's Church to practice their music for Reverend Oliver Hill's upcoming wedding. Taking a break from their practice, Ginger is talking to her friends when a body hurdles from the church balcony onto the pews. Chief Inspector Basil Reed is back on the job. He rounds up the choir members and asks Ginger to sit in on the interviews. Ginger is wary of getting involved with him again, but agrees to help him in a professional capacity.
This is a fast moving cozy mystery. A lot of the secondary storylines are advanced in this book. I enjoyed the Oliver Hill storyline and the murder mystery. I did not care for the reconciliation with Basil after his abrupt departure in the last book. He really didn't have much of an explanation. My rating: 4 Stars.
This is a fast moving cozy mystery. A lot of the secondary storylines are advanced in this book. I enjoyed the Oliver Hill storyline and the murder mystery. I did not care for the reconciliation with Basil after his abrupt departure in the last book. He really didn't have much of an explanation. My rating: 4 Stars.
October 30, 2018
Murder at St. George's Church by Lee Strauss continues Lady Ginger Gold's life in London. She is helping her friend Reverend Oliver Hill to ready the church for his wedding. Since Basil Reed left, she has kept herself busy and begun to date again. Then a suspicious death at the church during choir practice brings in Scotland Yard and Basil has returned. The quickly paced plot with complex relationships within the congregation as well as Ginger's life kept me turning the pages. I'm on to the next one. I truly enjoy this series and I'm so glad that I found Ms. Strauss and her historical cozy series.
December 9, 2018
2.5 stars
Ginger's friend Rev. Oliver Hill is about to be married at long last! Ginger senses there is something not quite right and both the bride and groom have cold feet. Yet, they are both determined to go through with it, even after the choirmaster falls over the railing dead. Ginger has a murder to solve and a romance to make right. Her own love life is starting to pick up. Ginger is stepping out with Canadian naval captain William Beale, but her heart doesn't flutter the way it does with Basil. Basil has been in self-imposed exile but returns to solve the murder mystery with out without Ginger's help. Ginger is in-all in!
This story started off light enough but got really dark. I absolutely can not stand abusers or men who claim to be "weak" and "allowed" women to seduce them, especially in a situation like the one presented in the book. I dropped my rating because of this. I figured out who the murderer was by process of elimination. I thought it was someone else because I had guessed their secret early on. The end of the novel is SUPER rushed! I would have liked more courtship and romance with the focus on Oliver's wedding and not Ginger's love life.
The murder victim, Mr. Theodore Edwards, is a nasty man who will not be missed by most of the congregation. He was hard on his wife and everyone else. I couldn't believe his appalling treatment of his wife in public no less. I feel very sorry for her because she stays with him presumably because there is no other option and it would cause a scandal to divorce him. Esme is not the nicest of women or easiest to get along with but she and her husband bring out the worst in each other. A divorce, scandalous as it may be, may have been a better option. Of course there's always murder, which she claims she didn't do, but the motive is strong. Her sister-in-law Catherine is a nervous sort of woman who wants everyone to get along. She blindly worships her brother. Other ladies in the choir include Miss Marjorie Bertram, a singularly naive and silly young woman and Miss Anna Howard, another silly young woman. Mary Blythe, a quiet dentist’s receptionist, the bride to be, is mysterious and keeps her feelings to herself. She is shy and dislikes being the center of attention. I can relate but why is she marrying a vicar if she would rather elope? Mary has secrets which I found obvious. One male suspect, Mr. Piper, is a bit cantankerous and doesn't seem to like Mr. Edwards very much.
Oliver is such a sweetheart. He loves his congregation and is kind and chivalrous. His chivalry gets him into trouble sometimes because he must play rescuer. We finally meet Ginger's sister Louisa, who is even more immature and obnoxious that Felicia. Louisa's brash American speech, blatant flirtation and rudeness to everyone "beneath" her is enough to drive even Ginger crazy! Louisa makes Felicia look mature! Felicia has learned her lesson and decided to embrace the flapper lifestyle once and for all. Armed with newfound knowledge, she is ready for fun. I still find her vastly irritating and don't agree with her lifestyle choices. She still butts heads with her grandmother who is trying to put one tiny toe into the modern age while the rest of her is stuck in the Victorian era. Felicia needs to be sent to be a companion to some elderly relative even more annoying than her grandmother and that will cure her of her behavior. Matilda Hanson returns and shows that she's not just a pretty face. She's very kind and sweet but I disagree with the decision she makes in the end.
I was very disappointed Haley exits the story early on after receiving shocking news from Boston. The news didn't surprise me and I'm not sure she warrants her own spin-off series. It sounds too dark for me.
Ginger has two suitors in this novel. Captain William Beale, Ginger's new gentleman friend, is not right for her. He's too old-fashioned and snobby, not to mention very jealous. I didn't like his behavior when drinking. Basil returns with a personality transplant. He's no longer brooding but openly ready to declare his feelings for Ginger. She isn't sure how she feels. I didn't like how fast Basil moves. The resolution to their love story happens too quickly with too easy an out. One minute he loves his wife and she's still mourning Daniel and now all of a sudden the sparks have turned into love? Not my cup of tea.
One more murder mystery and one novella left to go in this series.
Ginger's friend Rev. Oliver Hill is about to be married at long last! Ginger senses there is something not quite right and both the bride and groom have cold feet. Yet, they are both determined to go through with it, even after the choirmaster falls over the railing dead. Ginger has a murder to solve and a romance to make right. Her own love life is starting to pick up. Ginger is stepping out with Canadian naval captain William Beale, but her heart doesn't flutter the way it does with Basil. Basil has been in self-imposed exile but returns to solve the murder mystery with out without Ginger's help. Ginger is in-all in!
This story started off light enough but got really dark. I absolutely can not stand abusers or men who claim to be "weak" and "allowed" women to seduce them, especially in a situation like the one presented in the book. I dropped my rating because of this. I figured out who the murderer was by process of elimination. I thought it was someone else because I had guessed their secret early on. The end of the novel is SUPER rushed! I would have liked more courtship and romance with the focus on Oliver's wedding and not Ginger's love life.
The murder victim, Mr. Theodore Edwards, is a nasty man who will not be missed by most of the congregation. He was hard on his wife and everyone else. I couldn't believe his appalling treatment of his wife in public no less. I feel very sorry for her because she stays with him presumably because there is no other option and it would cause a scandal to divorce him. Esme is not the nicest of women or easiest to get along with but she and her husband bring out the worst in each other. A divorce, scandalous as it may be, may have been a better option. Of course there's always murder, which she claims she didn't do, but the motive is strong. Her sister-in-law Catherine is a nervous sort of woman who wants everyone to get along. She blindly worships her brother. Other ladies in the choir include Miss Marjorie Bertram, a singularly naive and silly young woman and Miss Anna Howard, another silly young woman. Mary Blythe, a quiet dentist’s receptionist, the bride to be, is mysterious and keeps her feelings to herself. She is shy and dislikes being the center of attention. I can relate but why is she marrying a vicar if she would rather elope? Mary has secrets which I found obvious. One male suspect, Mr. Piper, is a bit cantankerous and doesn't seem to like Mr. Edwards very much.
Oliver is such a sweetheart. He loves his congregation and is kind and chivalrous. His chivalry gets him into trouble sometimes because he must play rescuer. We finally meet Ginger's sister Louisa, who is even more immature and obnoxious that Felicia. Louisa's brash American speech, blatant flirtation and rudeness to everyone "beneath" her is enough to drive even Ginger crazy! Louisa makes Felicia look mature! Felicia has learned her lesson and decided to embrace the flapper lifestyle once and for all. Armed with newfound knowledge, she is ready for fun. I still find her vastly irritating and don't agree with her lifestyle choices. She still butts heads with her grandmother who is trying to put one tiny toe into the modern age while the rest of her is stuck in the Victorian era. Felicia needs to be sent to be a companion to some elderly relative even more annoying than her grandmother and that will cure her of her behavior. Matilda Hanson returns and shows that she's not just a pretty face. She's very kind and sweet but I disagree with the decision she makes in the end.
I was very disappointed Haley exits the story early on after receiving shocking news from Boston. The news didn't surprise me and I'm not sure she warrants her own spin-off series. It sounds too dark for me.
Ginger has two suitors in this novel. Captain William Beale, Ginger's new gentleman friend, is not right for her. He's too old-fashioned and snobby, not to mention very jealous. I didn't like his behavior when drinking. Basil returns with a personality transplant. He's no longer brooding but openly ready to declare his feelings for Ginger. She isn't sure how she feels. I didn't like how fast Basil moves. The resolution to their love story happens too quickly with too easy an out. One minute he loves his wife and she's still mourning Daniel and now all of a sudden the sparks have turned into love? Not my cup of tea.
One more murder mystery and one novella left to go in this series.
April 23, 2022
3.5/4.
Interesting story that kept me reading. A nice finish of my annual reading challenge
Interesting story that kept me reading. A nice finish of my annual reading challenge
February 20, 2020
I usually enjoy this series, but "Murder at St. George's Church" had the feel of being slapped together in a hurry. Looking at the publication dates for the books in this series, it might behoove Ms. Strauss to take more time and care between Ginger's escapades.
I also felt the story line with William was unneeded. One only needs to look at the title of the next book to know Ginger and Basil will get married. Ginger could certainly have been upset and harbored doubts about forgiving Basil without William in the picture. The only part of the story I liked with him was when he gallantly stepped out of the picture. I liked it because it was so unexpected after the way he'd been acting.
The mystery was also easier to solve than some of the previous ones. And I was not happy to see Haley leaving near the end. I'm guessing that at some point, Ginger will head to Boston to help solve the case of her brother's murder. But it will be really sad if Haley (her best friend) is absent when Ginger and Basil tie the knot.
Once again, the fashion tidbits were inserted awkwardly into the narrative. I know Ms. Strauss can do a better job in this regard because she has previously. I'm thinking a rush job contributed to the less than seamless aspects regarding the narrative.
I'll be happy to read the novella dealing with Ginger and Basil's wedding. And I hope the next regular installment of the series is more concisely written and edited.
Okay, I just found out the Lee Strauss is writing a spin-off series starring Haley Higgins. I am so bummed! My favorite part of the Ginger Gold books are the banter between Ginger and Haley. They play off each other so well and so naturally. I'll be denied in either series I choose to read. What a joke! I'm guessing I won't like either as much as the first seven books of the Ginger Gold mysteries. :( Another reason to deduct stars from the rating.
I also felt the story line with William was unneeded. One only needs to look at the title of the next book to know Ginger and Basil will get married. Ginger could certainly have been upset and harbored doubts about forgiving Basil without William in the picture. The only part of the story I liked with him was when he gallantly stepped out of the picture. I liked it because it was so unexpected after the way he'd been acting.
The mystery was also easier to solve than some of the previous ones. And I was not happy to see Haley leaving near the end. I'm guessing that at some point, Ginger will head to Boston to help solve the case of her brother's murder. But it will be really sad if Haley (her best friend) is absent when Ginger and Basil tie the knot.
Once again, the fashion tidbits were inserted awkwardly into the narrative. I know Ms. Strauss can do a better job in this regard because she has previously. I'm thinking a rush job contributed to the less than seamless aspects regarding the narrative.
I'll be happy to read the novella dealing with Ginger and Basil's wedding. And I hope the next regular installment of the series is more concisely written and edited.
Okay, I just found out the Lee Strauss is writing a spin-off series starring Haley Higgins. I am so bummed! My favorite part of the Ginger Gold books are the banter between Ginger and Haley. They play off each other so well and so naturally. I'll be denied in either series I choose to read. What a joke! I'm guessing I won't like either as much as the first seven books of the Ginger Gold mysteries. :( Another reason to deduct stars from the rating.
May 27, 2018
There are lots of changes in the air for Lady Ginger Gold and her friends and family in the pacily-written, seventh instalment of this 1920’s- inspired detective series.
The author is back on form here, and there is plenty to be enjoyed- murder, jealousy, affairs and intrigue all figure. The setting-London in 1924- is well-realised and issues such as mental health and contraception (or rather the lack of it) are realistically handled.
There is sadness but also a lot of happiness. Ginger and Basil engage in a lot of verbal fencing, but there is a resolution to their awkward situation. Haley moves on- to her own series- and the vicar finds love.
I really enjoyed this novel. It is light reading, but many of the characters have depth and reality.The plot, centred on an investigation of the murder of the philandering choirmaster, Theo Edwards, is interesting and the solution, while not difficult to fathom, is quite satisfactory. There is enough period detail to keep historical fans happy, without it overwhelming everything else.
3.5 stars.
Thank you to the author for the digital ARC.
The author is back on form here, and there is plenty to be enjoyed- murder, jealousy, affairs and intrigue all figure. The setting-London in 1924- is well-realised and issues such as mental health and contraception (or rather the lack of it) are realistically handled.
There is sadness but also a lot of happiness. Ginger and Basil engage in a lot of verbal fencing, but there is a resolution to their awkward situation. Haley moves on- to her own series- and the vicar finds love.
I really enjoyed this novel. It is light reading, but many of the characters have depth and reality.The plot, centred on an investigation of the murder of the philandering choirmaster, Theo Edwards, is interesting and the solution, while not difficult to fathom, is quite satisfactory. There is enough period detail to keep historical fans happy, without it overwhelming everything else.
3.5 stars.
Thank you to the author for the digital ARC.
August 8, 2018
I like this author and enjoy her books. Her characters are very similar to Phriney Fisher series.
July 29, 2022
Ginger Gold's friend, the Reverend Oliver Hill, is finally ready to settle down with a wife. The church is decorated and the choir gathers for a final rehearsal before the big day--with Ginger and her friend Haley making up two of their numbers. But all is not well at St. George's Church. During an intermission in the rehearsal, the choir director, Mr. Theodore Edwards, plunges to his death from the organ loft in the balcony. He had gone up there to berate his wife (once again) over her poor organ-playing skills. When Haley examines him while waiting for the police to arrive, she discovers that Edwards was struck with a blunt object before he went over the balcony railing. This is not accident, it's now a case of murder.
When Scotland Yard shows up, Ginger is astonished to see Chief Inspector Basil Reed. At the end of the last book, Basil has been placed on leave due to his behavior during the investigation of the murder of his estranged wife and he had taken himself off to South Africa to "find himself" (my term, not his). Ginger was hurt at the way he left and the fact he had not written while he was gone. He hadn't even bothered to tell her that he was back and reinstated. So...she's been stepping out with the handsome Captain William Beale. In fact, Captain Beale has asked her to marry him. She likes the captain, but he just doesn't make her heart skip a beat like some people...Oh wait, we're still hurt and mad at him. Things are about to get complicated on the romance front for Lady Ginger Gold, 'cause Captain Beale knows what he wants...and so does Inspector Reed. But does Ginger?
Anyway...so Ginger finds herself uncomfortably working with Basil again. The circumstantial evidence seems to point to Mrs. Edwards and Basil's superior officer instructs him to arrest her. Mrs. Edwards insists she's innocent. She may not have liked her husband much, but she is no killer. So, she hires Ginger to look for the real killer and clear her name. Ginger and Basil soon learn the Edwards was a philanderer with a taste for younger women. Could one of his conquests have done him in? There are also a few men interested in some of the choir members, perhaps one of them killed the director to protect a young woman's honor.
So...in my review of the previous entry in the Ginger Gold series I mentioned that there were two things about the series that were wearing thin. We seem to have taken care of item number one--the on-again, off-again romance between Ginger and Basil. It looks for all the world like they're finally going to get married. So, yay for that. The second problem (the chattering, self-absorbed, immature young woman in Ginger's life) also gets resolved, but none too soon.We get almost a whole book of Ginger's half-sister whining about being bored, making her maid's life a misery, and saying the most obnoxious things she can think of. You can't imagine my relief when Louisa suddenly announces that she's going back to America. Can I help you pack? Don't let the door hit you on the way out. Seriously, she was even more annoying than Felicia was before Strauss had her grow up a bit and that didn't seem possible. And, quite frankly, she served NO purpose in the story line other than to be annoying. I just hope we don't pick up yet another whiny little secondary character in the future.
The mystery is fast-paced and nicely plotted. I did spot the killer fairly early, but that didn't ruin my overall enjoyment. And, while Ginger may exasperate me at times, I do genuinely like her character and enjoy following her adventures.
First posted on my blog My Reader's Block. Please request permission before reposting portions of review. Thanks.
When Scotland Yard shows up, Ginger is astonished to see Chief Inspector Basil Reed. At the end of the last book, Basil has been placed on leave due to his behavior during the investigation of the murder of his estranged wife and he had taken himself off to South Africa to "find himself" (my term, not his). Ginger was hurt at the way he left and the fact he had not written while he was gone. He hadn't even bothered to tell her that he was back and reinstated. So...she's been stepping out with the handsome Captain William Beale. In fact, Captain Beale has asked her to marry him. She likes the captain, but he just doesn't make her heart skip a beat like some people...Oh wait, we're still hurt and mad at him. Things are about to get complicated on the romance front for Lady Ginger Gold, 'cause Captain Beale knows what he wants...and so does Inspector Reed. But does Ginger?
Anyway...so Ginger finds herself uncomfortably working with Basil again. The circumstantial evidence seems to point to Mrs. Edwards and Basil's superior officer instructs him to arrest her. Mrs. Edwards insists she's innocent. She may not have liked her husband much, but she is no killer. So, she hires Ginger to look for the real killer and clear her name. Ginger and Basil soon learn the Edwards was a philanderer with a taste for younger women. Could one of his conquests have done him in? There are also a few men interested in some of the choir members, perhaps one of them killed the director to protect a young woman's honor.
So...in my review of the previous entry in the Ginger Gold series I mentioned that there were two things about the series that were wearing thin. We seem to have taken care of item number one--the on-again, off-again romance between Ginger and Basil. It looks for all the world like they're finally going to get married. So, yay for that. The second problem (the chattering, self-absorbed, immature young woman in Ginger's life) also gets resolved, but none too soon.We get almost a whole book of Ginger's half-sister whining about being bored, making her maid's life a misery, and saying the most obnoxious things she can think of. You can't imagine my relief when Louisa suddenly announces that she's going back to America. Can I help you pack? Don't let the door hit you on the way out. Seriously, she was even more annoying than Felicia was before Strauss had her grow up a bit and that didn't seem possible. And, quite frankly, she served NO purpose in the story line other than to be annoying. I just hope we don't pick up yet another whiny little secondary character in the future.
The mystery is fast-paced and nicely plotted. I did spot the killer fairly early, but that didn't ruin my overall enjoyment. And, while Ginger may exasperate me at times, I do genuinely like her character and enjoy following her adventures.
First posted on my blog My Reader's Block. Please request permission before reposting portions of review. Thanks.
April 30, 2020
Ginger Gold's friend Rev. Oliver Hill, is getting married in a couple of days to the quiet Mary Blythe. Ginger has talked Hailey and Felicia into joining the choir and they, and all the other choir members are at St. George's Church for rehearsal. Before rehearsal has a chance to get fully underway, Mr. Theodore Edwards, the choir director, falls to his death. It was no secret that Mr. and Mrs Edwards, the church organist, had a rocky marriage and fought constantly, so it wasn't surprising when she's arrested for his murder. Mrs. Edwards proclaims her innocence and promptly hires Ginger to find the real guilty party. Ginger is completely taken by surprise when Chief Inspector Basil Reed shows up at St. George's Church to investigate. She didn't know he was back in London.
Previously, Basil Reed had left town (actually the country) and Ginger started dating Canadian naval captain William Beale. She claims she's over Basil (she isn't) and her heart isn't giving him another chance, that they're only working together to solve this case. There were many suspects as not only was Mr. Edwards not a very good husband, he wasn't a faithful one either, and you know what they say about a woman scorned.
I didn't care for the naval captain, William Beale. If he would've stuck around I don't think he and Ginger would've dated much longer. He didn't want her to work because "she didn't have to", and he seemed to have a jealous streak and a temper. Not a good fit for our happy, caring Ginger. I'm saddened that Ginger's best friend, Hailey had to leave England and go back to the U.S. (sigh), which means no more snappy banter between these best friends. Who's going to complain about Ginger's driving now? I was happy that Ginger's half-sister Louisa has decided to go back to Boston, as she got on my nerves more than Felicia and the dowager Lady Gold.
I'm glad Basil is back but think it should've taken him longer to win Ginger back. That part of the book felt a little rushed, especially since she was so upset with him for not contacting her the entire time he was gone. I'm really going to miss Hailey. Ginger's going to have to find someone else to help her with the medical side of her investigations from now on.
I own the ebook, but listen to the audiobook through the Hoopla app from my library. The narrator does a great job with the British and American accents.
Previously, Basil Reed had left town (actually the country) and Ginger started dating Canadian naval captain William Beale. She claims she's over Basil (she isn't) and her heart isn't giving him another chance, that they're only working together to solve this case. There were many suspects as not only was Mr. Edwards not a very good husband, he wasn't a faithful one either, and you know what they say about a woman scorned.
I didn't care for the naval captain, William Beale. If he would've stuck around I don't think he and Ginger would've dated much longer. He didn't want her to work because "she didn't have to", and he seemed to have a jealous streak and a temper. Not a good fit for our happy, caring Ginger. I'm saddened that Ginger's best friend, Hailey had to leave England and go back to the U.S. (sigh), which means no more snappy banter between these best friends. Who's going to complain about Ginger's driving now? I was happy that Ginger's half-sister Louisa has decided to go back to Boston, as she got on my nerves more than Felicia and the dowager Lady Gold.
I'm glad Basil is back but think it should've taken him longer to win Ginger back. That part of the book felt a little rushed, especially since she was so upset with him for not contacting her the entire time he was gone. I'm really going to miss Hailey. Ginger's going to have to find someone else to help her with the medical side of her investigations from now on.
I own the ebook, but listen to the audiobook through the Hoopla app from my library. The narrator does a great job with the British and American accents.
March 23, 2021
Lady Ginger Gold is very much a 21st century creation living in immediate post-Edwardian England. She is a member of the gentry, a feminist, a former British Secret Service agent, a private investigator, the owner of her own posh frock shop (Feathers & Flair, recently widowed by World War I, the owner of a Boston Terrier, and somewhat interested in Chief Inspector Basil Reed of Scotland Yard. The novel's grasp of the period is delightful: the menus, the motorcars, the clothes, the Church of England, the dreadful weather in London. It is the perfect cozy murder mystery: female amateur detective, male professional policeman, a little sexual tension but no outright sex, murder but without any graphic violence, a welcome absence of foul language. I started in the middle of the series; this book is the seventh of twelve. I was attracted to it because, in addition to cozy English murder mysteries, I love when the crime happens in or around the church or involves the vicar or the curate or something like that. It is a pleasant book, entertaining, decently plotted and engagingly written.
November 17, 2021
Another fun outing with Lady Gold and her gang.
October 22, 2023
“Love is the gift and love is the giver. Love is the gold that makes the day shine. Love forgets self to care for the other. Love changes life from water to wine.”
October 16, 2020
This book seemed hurried through. I don’t care if Basil’s wife was an adulteress, two months is too soon to decide on the next woman in his life. In my opinion, Basil should have waited at least six months before professing his eternal love to Ginger; then married her six months later.
And scuffling at the dance was horrid and totally bad form. Basil had no right cutting in on William and Ginger.
And liking Basil more because he was a better dancer! That’s no reason to choose a marriage partner.
I’m glad Ginger and Basil wound up together; I just don’t like the way it came about.
And scuffling at the dance was horrid and totally bad form. Basil had no right cutting in on William and Ginger.
And liking Basil more because he was a better dancer! That’s no reason to choose a marriage partner.
I’m glad Ginger and Basil wound up together; I just don’t like the way it came about.
March 8, 2019
The interaction between Ginger & Basil brought levity to this otherwise horrible murder mystery.
September 24, 2024
3 stars.
Ginger's vicar friend from St. George's is finally getting married. But just when they are preparing the church for the wedding, the choir master falls down dead from the upstairs balcony. And lo and behold, Basil is back to investigate.
Apparently during Basil's absence, Ginger has been "stepping out" with an American Captain who served with the vicar during the war. He has even asked Ginger to marry him. But Basil's return throws Ginger into turmoil. I did find the new Basil a bit more impudent than before.
It turns out the choir master was a bit of a sleaze and had seduced a number of women from the congregation. This story again highlighted the prevalent mores of the times where unmarried pregnant women had very little recourse but there were no consequences for the men involved.
It was a bit hard to figure out who the murderer is because a few people had reason to kill the man. It was probably who had the guts to do it.
The book ends with Haley leaving for Boston after learning one of her brothers has been killed. I do hope it's not the last we see of her because she's my favorite secondary character. I guess the biggest development is between Ginger and Basil, which does occur in this book. Let's see what the future brings....
Ginger's vicar friend from St. George's is finally getting married. But just when they are preparing the church for the wedding, the choir master falls down dead from the upstairs balcony. And lo and behold, Basil is back to investigate.
Apparently during Basil's absence, Ginger has been "stepping out" with an American Captain who served with the vicar during the war. He has even asked Ginger to marry him. But Basil's return throws Ginger into turmoil. I did find the new Basil a bit more impudent than before.
It turns out the choir master was a bit of a sleaze and had seduced a number of women from the congregation. This story again highlighted the prevalent mores of the times where unmarried pregnant women had very little recourse but there were no consequences for the men involved.
It was a bit hard to figure out who the murderer is because a few people had reason to kill the man. It was probably who had the guts to do it.
The book ends with Haley leaving for Boston after learning one of her brothers has been killed. I do hope it's not the last we see of her because she's my favorite secondary character. I guess the biggest development is between Ginger and Basil, which does occur in this book. Let's see what the future brings....
May 27, 2018
A fantastic edition to the Ginger Gold Series! The books in this series gets more and more involved while not only giving us a wonderful description of the times including fashion, food and attitudes. Reverend Oliver and Mary are getting married and while at the rehearsal the choral director gets murdered, Ginger of course must get involved, especially since one of the suspects hires her PI services. With lots of twists and turns and a new character vying for Ginger's attentions, this story moves fast with lots of sub-themes that keep you guessing as well as red-herrings and left turns! To add to that, Inspector Basil Reed has returned from his quick trip away to get his head back on straight and now, although Ginger must work with him, she feels the need not to let herself go beyond professional with him since he broke her heart. With wonderful supporting characters like, Haley, Ambrosia, Louisa and Felicity, we once again are treated to a wonderful mystery with a little romance and a lot of drama. Lee Strauss' books are not only very descriptive, but the descriptions are so detailed you read her book with a movie in your mind as you can visualize all the wonderful locales, fashions and food! I received and ARC from the author, but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.
May 28, 2018
After Murder at Kensington Gardens left Ginger and Basil’s relationship at a very low point, I was really looking forward to this next mystery. Would this book see their “will they-won’t they” romance move away from the “won’t” to the “will”? To answer that question would be a spoiler, but, suffice it to say that seeing Ginger and Basil working together to solve another murder case was entertaining and had its ups and downs.
I thoroughly enjoyed the mystery story of this book, largely, I think, because it was about ordinary people. With the murder taking place in the lovely Oliver Hill’s church building on the eve of his wedding, church members become embroiled in the affair and, of course, secrets and underlying dramas are brought out into the open.
As ever, Mrs Strauss has created a wonderful and varied cast of characters to be involved in the case, and we, of course, get to catch up to a greater or lesser extent with all the regulars. All in all, I found Murder at St George’s Church to be one of the most enjoyable books of the series and can highly recommend you read it yourself.
A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own.
I thoroughly enjoyed the mystery story of this book, largely, I think, because it was about ordinary people. With the murder taking place in the lovely Oliver Hill’s church building on the eve of his wedding, church members become embroiled in the affair and, of course, secrets and underlying dramas are brought out into the open.
As ever, Mrs Strauss has created a wonderful and varied cast of characters to be involved in the case, and we, of course, get to catch up to a greater or lesser extent with all the regulars. All in all, I found Murder at St George’s Church to be one of the most enjoyable books of the series and can highly recommend you read it yourself.
A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own.
May 30, 2018
The Pipes Did It!
(Disclaimer: I was provided a copy of the book and decided to read it and provide my honest review, which I have.) It’s been a while since I have read a Ginger Gold book, so reading Murder at St. George’s Church: a cozy historical mystery, A Ginger Gold Mystery Book 7 by Lee Strauss was like visiting a friend you haven’t seen in a while. It was also clear that I had some catching up to do – fast. As I got comfortable to dig in, the “whodunit?” happened. I was so excited because now I had the opportunity to become involved in the storyline. I use the word involved because the author is very good at welcoming readers into the story. To become part of the action versus a remaining passive reader. In addition, the storyline has an understory of feelings, emotions, and flirtations between the main two characters that make the plot even more interesting. Overall, Murder at St. Georges Church is a pleasant read with two surprise endings. Two. My RECOMMENDATION: –Tex. If you are a Ginger Gold Fan, then do not miss Murder at St. George’s Church: a cozy historical mystery, A Ginger Gold Mystery Book 7 by Lee Strauss.
(Disclaimer: I was provided a copy of the book and decided to read it and provide my honest review, which I have.) It’s been a while since I have read a Ginger Gold book, so reading Murder at St. George’s Church: a cozy historical mystery, A Ginger Gold Mystery Book 7 by Lee Strauss was like visiting a friend you haven’t seen in a while. It was also clear that I had some catching up to do – fast. As I got comfortable to dig in, the “whodunit?” happened. I was so excited because now I had the opportunity to become involved in the storyline. I use the word involved because the author is very good at welcoming readers into the story. To become part of the action versus a remaining passive reader. In addition, the storyline has an understory of feelings, emotions, and flirtations between the main two characters that make the plot even more interesting. Overall, Murder at St. Georges Church is a pleasant read with two surprise endings. Two. My RECOMMENDATION: –Tex. If you are a Ginger Gold Fan, then do not miss Murder at St. George’s Church: a cozy historical mystery, A Ginger Gold Mystery Book 7 by Lee Strauss.
April 24, 2020
Ginger shot Basil a disparaging look. "It's not an apology if you append it with criticism."
The humor typical of earlier books in this series was mostly absent, but at least it was replaced with conflicted feelings about love on Ginger's part. Her reluctance to give her heart to Basil again made for a fun investigation as their paths kept crossing during their search to uncover the murderer's identity and motive. I was very glad that the amazing tension between them was back in full force, and it led to a great outcome. Basil's playful comments were super cute.
The supporting characters were much more in the background this time around. Ginger and Basil were definitely the main focus in the character development department. This fit well with the slightly more complicated plot and the many intertwined characters in this story. Also, I love when I figure out answers far sooner than the characters in mysteries, all thanks to just a few little hints along the way!
The humor typical of earlier books in this series was mostly absent, but at least it was replaced with conflicted feelings about love on Ginger's part. Her reluctance to give her heart to Basil again made for a fun investigation as their paths kept crossing during their search to uncover the murderer's identity and motive. I was very glad that the amazing tension between them was back in full force, and it led to a great outcome. Basil's playful comments were super cute.
The supporting characters were much more in the background this time around. Ginger and Basil were definitely the main focus in the character development department. This fit well with the slightly more complicated plot and the many intertwined characters in this story. Also, I love when I figure out answers far sooner than the characters in mysteries, all thanks to just a few little hints along the way!
May 4, 2025
what a wedding -
Oliver is preparing to wed. Days before the wedding the choir master is murdered during a choir practice break. When the police arrive Ginger discovers Basil has returned. Basil discovers he has competition for Gingers affections.
This was a complicated twisty tale. The murder has implications for the church, the wedding, and Ginger’s relationships. I guested the twist with Oliver’s fiancee Mary. I didn’t really identify the murderer until near the reveal. Overall, I enjoyed the mystery.
Louisa, Ginger’s sister, seemed like kind of a useless character. She didn’t really contribute anything to the plot. William was also kind of unpleasant. I wish we had met him previously to make the relationship with Ginger make more sense.
The ending seemed rushed. A lot happens in the last couple of chapters! I’m glad Oliver gets a happy ending and Ginger and Basil reconcile. Can’t wait for the main event in the next installment.
Oliver is preparing to wed. Days before the wedding the choir master is murdered during a choir practice break. When the police arrive Ginger discovers Basil has returned. Basil discovers he has competition for Gingers affections.
This was a complicated twisty tale. The murder has implications for the church, the wedding, and Ginger’s relationships. I guested the twist with Oliver’s fiancee Mary. I didn’t really identify the murderer until near the reveal. Overall, I enjoyed the mystery.
Louisa, Ginger’s sister, seemed like kind of a useless character. She didn’t really contribute anything to the plot. William was also kind of unpleasant. I wish we had met him previously to make the relationship with Ginger make more sense.
The ending seemed rushed. A lot happens in the last couple of chapters! I’m glad Oliver gets a happy ending and Ginger and Basil reconcile. Can’t wait for the main event in the next installment.
May 29, 2018
Murder at St George's Church, the seventh book in Lee Strauss's Ginger Gold series is a delightful, fast-paced read which I devoured in a weekend. The mystery is intriguing and at the end heartbreaking in its reflection of how women were seen and treated in the 1920s. Ginger's driving is still atrocious and her taste in fashion is still impeccable. The addition of her half-sister Louisa provides another strong female personality at Hartigan House. Ginger balances the affections of several suitors throughout the story but the ending is sure to provide deep satisfaction for those like me who were concerned at the conclusion of the previous book. I felt sad to read of the departure of a main character but I am excited to see where their journey may take them. I also can't wait for the next book in the series to see what Ginger will get up to next.
June 4, 2018
The things that can happen in a church may surprise you.
This historical cosy series just keeps getting better. Both men and incidental recurring characters are being angrily developed. I look forward to more books in the series.
Check Inspector Basil Reed is back & determined to woo Ginger. Problem is, Ginger is being required by a friend of Oliver, vicar of St. George Church.
When the choirmaster is felled by a loose organ pipe then pushed off the organ loft,
who in the choir wanted him dead? Basil is delighted to work closely with Ginger but she's not so sure. Several interesting subplots include Oliver's impending nuptials which only he seems happy about taking place quickly. A few surprises take place as well. A thoroughly enjoyable read.
This historical cosy series just keeps getting better. Both men and incidental recurring characters are being angrily developed. I look forward to more books in the series.
Check Inspector Basil Reed is back & determined to woo Ginger. Problem is, Ginger is being required by a friend of Oliver, vicar of St. George Church.
When the choirmaster is felled by a loose organ pipe then pushed off the organ loft,
who in the choir wanted him dead? Basil is delighted to work closely with Ginger but she's not so sure. Several interesting subplots include Oliver's impending nuptials which only he seems happy about taking place quickly. A few surprises take place as well. A thoroughly enjoyable read.
July 5, 2018
Lady Gold is helping to decorate St. George's for the marriage of the vicar to a shy young woman. It all comes to a screeching halt, however, when the body of the choir director hurtles from the organ loft to the floor of the nave. Of course Goldy is drawn in to the investigation. 1920s high fashion, luxury cars and social life continue to add interest to the proceedings as does Goldy's love life, which currently includes a Canadian military officer as well as her erstwhile beau from Scotland Yard. Unwanted pregnancies, widows and slightly addled sisters clutter up the proceedings and add just the right amount of confusion to the suspect list. Bossy the Boston terrier is still Goldy's faithful companion.
July 23, 2018
Ginger Gold always seems to get mixed up with murder!
This book takes place nearby London, in the 1920's.
Reverend Hill is betrothed to the wrong girl, but he is honorable and will go through with it. She is with child, by a married man, and wants to elope to speed things along. The Reverend is clueless, and thinks her sickness is due to nerves before
the wedding.
During rehearsal, the choir director, also the father of the baby, falls from the balcony, after being hit on the head and pushed over.
Ginger and her American friend, who is studying to be a pathologist, Haley,
put their heads together and solve the mystery of the killer.
this is one of the Ginger Gold series, and all are a great read.
I highly recommend these books.
This book takes place nearby London, in the 1920's.
Reverend Hill is betrothed to the wrong girl, but he is honorable and will go through with it. She is with child, by a married man, and wants to elope to speed things along. The Reverend is clueless, and thinks her sickness is due to nerves before
the wedding.
During rehearsal, the choir director, also the father of the baby, falls from the balcony, after being hit on the head and pushed over.
Ginger and her American friend, who is studying to be a pathologist, Haley,
put their heads together and solve the mystery of the killer.
this is one of the Ginger Gold series, and all are a great read.
I highly recommend these books.
November 8, 2019
First, I like to say I am truly enjoying Lee Strauss books.
However, I have always wonder about authors that get horsey facts wrong.
Where do they get their ideas of how you ride a horse?
Do they not know if you squeeze the horse’s flank with your legs you will have a very high chance of getting buck off?
Who told the author to snap the reins to get a horse to move?
All that is going to do is hurt the horse’s mouth and cause the horse to throw their head.
Is it that hard to find an editor that has horse knowledge?
Is there a way I can help?
I read around 250 books a year and 95% of the books that have horses in them have simple mistakes that could be fixed easily with the help of any equestrian.
However, I have always wonder about authors that get horsey facts wrong.
Where do they get their ideas of how you ride a horse?
Do they not know if you squeeze the horse’s flank with your legs you will have a very high chance of getting buck off?
Who told the author to snap the reins to get a horse to move?
All that is going to do is hurt the horse’s mouth and cause the horse to throw their head.
Is it that hard to find an editor that has horse knowledge?
Is there a way I can help?
I read around 250 books a year and 95% of the books that have horses in them have simple mistakes that could be fixed easily with the help of any equestrian.
May 27, 2018
This is an excellent addition to this wonderful series. The storyline is entertains and filled with period details and well developed. The characters are interesting and multifaceted.
The Vicar of St George’s church is getting married, the church is being decorated, the choir is practicing, and the choir director is murdered. Ginger Gold takes charge until the police arrive but she’s unprepared when Basil Reed walks into the church. Can they work together to find the killer when all Basil wants to do is win back Ginger’s love?
So many interesting things on the horizon and this book leads to them all.
I received an arc of this book and voluntarily provided a review.
The Vicar of St George’s church is getting married, the church is being decorated, the choir is practicing, and the choir director is murdered. Ginger Gold takes charge until the police arrive but she’s unprepared when Basil Reed walks into the church. Can they work together to find the killer when all Basil wants to do is win back Ginger’s love?
So many interesting things on the horizon and this book leads to them all.
I received an arc of this book and voluntarily provided a review.
May 28, 2018
book 7 in the Ginger Gold series is a delightful cozy mystery. it is setin the 1920s with Lady Ginger Gold eagerly solving a murder with some help from her friend Haley and more help from inspector Basil Reed.
will Basil win Ginger's heart from her new beau William.? who is the minister marrying and who killed the choir drector?
These are all questions that will be answered in Book 7.
Lee does a great job of describing the ballroom at the ritz hotel and the swanky uppercrust event hekd there. Her descriptions of the clothing worn by Lady Gold are amazing.
this book involves a mental institution and more information sboutvthe ife of women in the 1920s.
an overall enjoyable read
will Basil win Ginger's heart from her new beau William.? who is the minister marrying and who killed the choir drector?
These are all questions that will be answered in Book 7.
Lee does a great job of describing the ballroom at the ritz hotel and the swanky uppercrust event hekd there. Her descriptions of the clothing worn by Lady Gold are amazing.
this book involves a mental institution and more information sboutvthe ife of women in the 1920s.
an overall enjoyable read
June 1, 2018
This is my absolute favorite series. I wish I could go back in time and meet Ginger and Haley, shop at Feathers and Flair, attend the parties and dances and help Ginger solve the mysteries.
I loved this book. The mystery was interesting with many story lines and plots twists. It kept me guessing until the end and what a wonderful ending it was! I won't say more as don't want to spoil it for anyone.
While this is part of a wonderful series, the book can easily be read as a standalone. If you do, I would encourage you to go back and read the books in order. Each book is as marvelous as the next.
I received an ARC of this book. The choice to read and review it was all mine.
I loved this book. The mystery was interesting with many story lines and plots twists. It kept me guessing until the end and what a wonderful ending it was! I won't say more as don't want to spoil it for anyone.
While this is part of a wonderful series, the book can easily be read as a standalone. If you do, I would encourage you to go back and read the books in order. Each book is as marvelous as the next.
I received an ARC of this book. The choice to read and review it was all mine.
June 3, 2018
A mixed bag
I'm torn. On the one hand, great broad scope for the mystery, and I appreciate the trajectories of the minor characters like the Reverend, Matilda, etc., and, as always, Haley and Ginger together. Loved the rather salacious details. On the other, this installment succumbed to the presence of a love triangle. The spat between Basil and the Captain was cringeworthy. Ginger is a wealthy, independent widow, there is absolutely no need for her to marry, and I was completely unconvinced by Basil's suit. She didn't deserve that ending, the series had been better than that. I'll keep reading, but, damn.
I'm torn. On the one hand, great broad scope for the mystery, and I appreciate the trajectories of the minor characters like the Reverend, Matilda, etc., and, as always, Haley and Ginger together. Loved the rather salacious details. On the other, this installment succumbed to the presence of a love triangle. The spat between Basil and the Captain was cringeworthy. Ginger is a wealthy, independent widow, there is absolutely no need for her to marry, and I was completely unconvinced by Basil's suit. She didn't deserve that ending, the series had been better than that. I'll keep reading, but, damn.
June 22, 2018
Love the continuing sage of Ginger, Haley, and Inspector Reed. I look forward to reading more in this series by this delightful author. Her research is very well done giving the reader a screen shot of what life was like in the 20's.
Some spoilers here:
Although Ginger has her hands full with an unexpected marriage proposal and a rather haughty half sister she handles it all with grace. The romance between Ginger and Inspector Reed appears to finally be put to bed. Poor Haley must return to American because her brother has been murdered! Ginger is torn between wanting to go with Haley but she has already been hired to solve a murder. What's a friend to do?
Some spoilers here:
Although Ginger has her hands full with an unexpected marriage proposal and a rather haughty half sister she handles it all with grace. The romance between Ginger and Inspector Reed appears to finally be put to bed. Poor Haley must return to American because her brother has been murdered! Ginger is torn between wanting to go with Haley but she has already been hired to solve a murder. What's a friend to do?
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