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Kurland St. Mary Mystery #6
Death Comes to Bath
On a visit to Bath, Major Sir Robert Kurland and Lady Lucy Kurland discover that the English spa town is not beneficial to everyone's health . . .
After Sir Robert's injury from the battle of Waterloo begins troubling him again, his wife Lucy insists they relocate from the village of Kurland St. Mary to Bath, along with her sister Anna, so that Robert can take the waters and recover.
At the Roman baths, Robert befriends an elderly and pugnacious businessman, Sir William Benson, ennobled by the Crown for his service to industry. Their acquaintance is short-lived, however, when the man is found drowned in the baths. Robert vows to find his killer, with Lucy's aid.
The members of Sir William's family seem the most obvious suspects to benefit from the wealthy man's death, but his will has gone missing. To deduce who sent Sir William to a watery grave, Robert and Lucy must investigate with the utmost discretion—before they too find themselves in over their heads . . .
After Sir Robert's injury from the battle of Waterloo begins troubling him again, his wife Lucy insists they relocate from the village of Kurland St. Mary to Bath, along with her sister Anna, so that Robert can take the waters and recover.
At the Roman baths, Robert befriends an elderly and pugnacious businessman, Sir William Benson, ennobled by the Crown for his service to industry. Their acquaintance is short-lived, however, when the man is found drowned in the baths. Robert vows to find his killer, with Lucy's aid.
The members of Sir William's family seem the most obvious suspects to benefit from the wealthy man's death, but his will has gone missing. To deduce who sent Sir William to a watery grave, Robert and Lucy must investigate with the utmost discretion—before they too find themselves in over their heads . . .
266 pages, Hardcover
First published December 18, 2018
91 people are currently reading
529 people want to read
About the author
Catherine Lloyd
20 books522 followersCatherine Lloyd was born just outside London, England, into a large family of dreamers, artists, and history lovers. She completed her education with a master’s degree in history at the University College of Wales, Aberystwyth, and uses the skills she gained there to research and write her historical mysteries. Catherine currently lives in Hawaii with her husband and youngest daughter..
Please note only the Kurland St. Mary mysteries are written by this Catherine Lloyd, not the romances.
Librarian’s note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Please note only the Kurland St. Mary mysteries are written by this Catherine Lloyd, not the romances.
Librarian’s note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 166 reviews
November 22, 2018
Step back in time to Regency England with Death Comes to Bath by Catherine Lloyd and join Lord and Lady Kurland as they travel to Bath, England to seek treatment for his leg that was injured in the Battle of Waterloo. This is the sixth in “A Kurland St. Mary Mystery” series and my introductory read to the books. The story is a complete mystery of its own and it is not necessary to have read the previous books in the series. There may be some secondary character development, or some exploration of the two principal characters’ relationship that has been established in earlier books, however enjoyment of this book is not dependent on having previously read anything in the series.
Lord and Lady Kurland rent a house in Bath for a month while he participates in daily treatments in the healing waters. Almost immediately upon moving into their rental house their next door neighbor, Sir William Benson, comes to call. He is a bombastic, opinionated man, but Lord Kurland enjoys his company and a friendship develops. They are also soon visited by Sir William’s second wife, Miranda and her two sons, who voice very different opinions of the man.
Lady Benson extends an invitation to dinnr, explaining it is at the insistence of her husband. Both Lord and Lady Kurland accept, and are soon introduced to the rest of the Benson household, Sir William’s three sons from his first marriage. The tension between the members of the blended household is apparent from the initial meeting with Sir William contributing to its increase as it becomes apparent that he enjoys changing his will on a regular basis depending on who may have disappointed him most recently.
It comes as no surprise to any regular reader of mystery fiction that Sir William becomes a victim of murder. Lord and Lady Kurland enter into an investigation as they are both determined to discover what happened to Sir William and set things to rights if it is within their power. In addition to the death and subsequent investigation, the book has secondary stories featuring Lord Kurland’s doctor, Sir Patrick Fletcher, his very pregnant wife, Penelope, and Lady Kurland’s sister Anna. There is just enough story involving these characters to give depth to the novel without bogging it down in unnecessary detail.
Character development of the principals as well as the victim and his family is well done. Through the writing, they are presented as complex people who are interesting and have their own individual strengths and weaknesses. There are also clues and red herrings sprinkled throughout the book allowing the reader to draw conclusions as to who might be guilty of committing murder. While I solved the mystery prior to the end of the book, it wasn’t too early in the book and it was still enjoyable to read and ascertain if I was correct.
This book is an excellent representation of a cozy mystery. The reasons for Lord and Lady Kurland being in Bath and the involving themselves in the solution of their neighbor’s murder are completely believable, which adds to the overall enjoyment of the story. The characters who populate the book add depth and interest beyond the mystery itself and help to increase the reader’s interest in the book as well as the series. Although I haven’t read any of the other books, I would certainly consider reading others in the series and would probably opt to begin with the first book as I suspect there is some relationship development that would be interesting to experience as it grows.
My thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Books for providing an advanced digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Lord and Lady Kurland rent a house in Bath for a month while he participates in daily treatments in the healing waters. Almost immediately upon moving into their rental house their next door neighbor, Sir William Benson, comes to call. He is a bombastic, opinionated man, but Lord Kurland enjoys his company and a friendship develops. They are also soon visited by Sir William’s second wife, Miranda and her two sons, who voice very different opinions of the man.
Lady Benson extends an invitation to dinnr, explaining it is at the insistence of her husband. Both Lord and Lady Kurland accept, and are soon introduced to the rest of the Benson household, Sir William’s three sons from his first marriage. The tension between the members of the blended household is apparent from the initial meeting with Sir William contributing to its increase as it becomes apparent that he enjoys changing his will on a regular basis depending on who may have disappointed him most recently.
It comes as no surprise to any regular reader of mystery fiction that Sir William becomes a victim of murder. Lord and Lady Kurland enter into an investigation as they are both determined to discover what happened to Sir William and set things to rights if it is within their power. In addition to the death and subsequent investigation, the book has secondary stories featuring Lord Kurland’s doctor, Sir Patrick Fletcher, his very pregnant wife, Penelope, and Lady Kurland’s sister Anna. There is just enough story involving these characters to give depth to the novel without bogging it down in unnecessary detail.
Character development of the principals as well as the victim and his family is well done. Through the writing, they are presented as complex people who are interesting and have their own individual strengths and weaknesses. There are also clues and red herrings sprinkled throughout the book allowing the reader to draw conclusions as to who might be guilty of committing murder. While I solved the mystery prior to the end of the book, it wasn’t too early in the book and it was still enjoyable to read and ascertain if I was correct.
This book is an excellent representation of a cozy mystery. The reasons for Lord and Lady Kurland being in Bath and the involving themselves in the solution of their neighbor’s murder are completely believable, which adds to the overall enjoyment of the story. The characters who populate the book add depth and interest beyond the mystery itself and help to increase the reader’s interest in the book as well as the series. Although I haven’t read any of the other books, I would certainly consider reading others in the series and would probably opt to begin with the first book as I suspect there is some relationship development that would be interesting to experience as it grows.
My thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Books for providing an advanced digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 29, 2018
Series: A Kurland St. Mary Mystery #6
Publication Date: 12/18/18
Close your eyes, breathe deeply, relax and move back in time with this masterfully written historical romantic mystery. The descriptions of places and people along with the authenticity of the era make you feel as if you are right there, meeting the people, smelling the aromas of the baths and touring the town of Bath.
Major Sir Robert Kurland was grievously injured during the battle of Waterloo. His leg was completely shattered and the surgeons wanted to remove it. Luckily for Major Kurland, his friend, gifted Army surgeon Patrick Fletcher wouldn’t allow it and managed to save the leg. The leg has never been truly well since that time, but Robert would rather deal with that pain than lose his leg. When a large knot rises on his thigh, he tries to hide it from his wife and Dr. Fletcher. His efforts to hide it are unsuccessful and Dr. Fletcher has to cut the knot open to drain it and hopefully save Robert’s life yet again. After Robert has healed sufficiently to travel, Dr. Fletcher wants him to go to Bath and take the treatments. Robert reluctantly agrees, but he isn’t happy about it.
In Bath, Robert realizes that the treatments are actually helping him and he is feeling better than he has in a very long time. To make the treatments even more bearable, he has the company of Sir William Benson who knew Robert’s grandfather. Robert comes to really like the older man but learns that Sir William’s family relationships are very poor and contentious indeed. It seems that the Benson’s are very free with airing their dirty laundry in front of others and Robert and Lucy learn much more about the family than they ever wanted to learn.
Early one morning Robert and Dr. Fletcher are on their way to the baths for Robert’s treatment and Robert is looking forward to his visit with Sir William. Only, Sir William isn’t there – but his physician is. When they realize that Sir William isn’t in the baths, Dr. Fletcher dives in to find him – but it is already too late – Sir William is dead. Robert and Dr. Fletcher don’t believe it was natural causes that caused him to submerge beneath the waters.
Lucy, Robert’s wife, has been investigating murders for the entire three years they’ve been married and she always drags Robert into helping her. This time, however, Robert needs no persuasion. He wants justice for his friend Sir William and he can’t help but feel that it is someone in Sir William’s family that caused his death. Now, he and Lucy just have to figure out who and why.
I was happy to see that Lucy’s health (both mental and physical) had improved since her series of miscarriages. I loved seeing how well they’ve settled into married life and how open they are in their love for each other.
We have a delightful cast of secondary characters some are recurring and some are new – some you will love, others you won’t. Of the recurring ones, we have, Dr. Fletcher and his wife Penelope (Robert’s former betrothed), Lucy’s sister Anna and some of their household staff. The new appearances include a possible love interest for Anna, Captain Harry Akers, and his family as well as the oddly blended family of Sir William.
As always, there is a twisted path to the solution and the villain may surprise you. It is a great addition to the series and now – the waiting for #7 begins!
Please check out my reviews at:
Blog: https://flippinpages.blog/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/flippinpages...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/FlippinPagesRev
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BarbBookReview
"I requested and received this e-book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher."
Publication Date: 12/18/18
Close your eyes, breathe deeply, relax and move back in time with this masterfully written historical romantic mystery. The descriptions of places and people along with the authenticity of the era make you feel as if you are right there, meeting the people, smelling the aromas of the baths and touring the town of Bath.
Major Sir Robert Kurland was grievously injured during the battle of Waterloo. His leg was completely shattered and the surgeons wanted to remove it. Luckily for Major Kurland, his friend, gifted Army surgeon Patrick Fletcher wouldn’t allow it and managed to save the leg. The leg has never been truly well since that time, but Robert would rather deal with that pain than lose his leg. When a large knot rises on his thigh, he tries to hide it from his wife and Dr. Fletcher. His efforts to hide it are unsuccessful and Dr. Fletcher has to cut the knot open to drain it and hopefully save Robert’s life yet again. After Robert has healed sufficiently to travel, Dr. Fletcher wants him to go to Bath and take the treatments. Robert reluctantly agrees, but he isn’t happy about it.
In Bath, Robert realizes that the treatments are actually helping him and he is feeling better than he has in a very long time. To make the treatments even more bearable, he has the company of Sir William Benson who knew Robert’s grandfather. Robert comes to really like the older man but learns that Sir William’s family relationships are very poor and contentious indeed. It seems that the Benson’s are very free with airing their dirty laundry in front of others and Robert and Lucy learn much more about the family than they ever wanted to learn.
Early one morning Robert and Dr. Fletcher are on their way to the baths for Robert’s treatment and Robert is looking forward to his visit with Sir William. Only, Sir William isn’t there – but his physician is. When they realize that Sir William isn’t in the baths, Dr. Fletcher dives in to find him – but it is already too late – Sir William is dead. Robert and Dr. Fletcher don’t believe it was natural causes that caused him to submerge beneath the waters.
Lucy, Robert’s wife, has been investigating murders for the entire three years they’ve been married and she always drags Robert into helping her. This time, however, Robert needs no persuasion. He wants justice for his friend Sir William and he can’t help but feel that it is someone in Sir William’s family that caused his death. Now, he and Lucy just have to figure out who and why.
I was happy to see that Lucy’s health (both mental and physical) had improved since her series of miscarriages. I loved seeing how well they’ve settled into married life and how open they are in their love for each other.
We have a delightful cast of secondary characters some are recurring and some are new – some you will love, others you won’t. Of the recurring ones, we have, Dr. Fletcher and his wife Penelope (Robert’s former betrothed), Lucy’s sister Anna and some of their household staff. The new appearances include a possible love interest for Anna, Captain Harry Akers, and his family as well as the oddly blended family of Sir William.
As always, there is a twisted path to the solution and the villain may surprise you. It is a great addition to the series and now – the waiting for #7 begins!
Please check out my reviews at:
Blog: https://flippinpages.blog/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/flippinpages...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/FlippinPagesRev
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BarbBookReview
"I requested and received this e-book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher."
January 11, 2019
A very cute historical cozy mystery. Lucy did seem a bit too Mary Sue for my taste but I liked the author's effort to spice up romance and I must say this is probably the most romantic book in the series. The ending seemed also a bit rushed in a weird way but overall it is a humorous and interesting read that I'd recommend to all cozy mystery fans. I hope the sequel is in works!
March 14, 2020
Death Comes to Bath
3.5 Stars
Sir Robert and Lady Lucy Kurland travel to Bath for the treatments and investigate the murder of a new acquaintance, Sir William Benson, whose abominable family all wanted him dead.
While the culprit is predictable and the motivation straightforward, it is the characterization that really makes the story shine. Each member of Sir William's despicable family is drawn in vivid detail, and this adds depth and intrigue to the rather mundane mystery.
Lucy and Robert's marriage is back on track after the difficulties of the previous book. Not only has Lucy made a wonderful recovery both physically and psychologically, but the love and affection she shares with Robert are delightful.
There are also updates in the lives of other recurring characters including Lucy's sister, Anna, and Penelope Fletcher, who is growing on me.
The final book so far, Death Comes to the Nursery, is next and it promises to be very satisfying.
3.5 Stars
Sir Robert and Lady Lucy Kurland travel to Bath for the treatments and investigate the murder of a new acquaintance, Sir William Benson, whose abominable family all wanted him dead.
While the culprit is predictable and the motivation straightforward, it is the characterization that really makes the story shine. Each member of Sir William's despicable family is drawn in vivid detail, and this adds depth and intrigue to the rather mundane mystery.
Lucy and Robert's marriage is back on track after the difficulties of the previous book. Not only has Lucy made a wonderful recovery both physically and psychologically, but the love and affection she shares with Robert are delightful.
There are also updates in the lives of other recurring characters including Lucy's sister, Anna, and Penelope Fletcher, who is growing on me.
The final book so far, Death Comes to the Nursery, is next and it promises to be very satisfying.
January 15, 2020
The mystery was okay, but the personal aspects more than compensated for it. I'm loving this series now.
September 1, 2019
Audio Review
I spotted this series a little while ago and just now had the chance to give it a go. I love reading books from the English Regency period and adding in a mystery becomes icing on the cake.
This was obviously a series that had been out for a while and, as I discovered, while listening, it probably would have worked much better getting it in order since the romance, family, and friend relationships developed over the course of the series.
Now, that said, the mystery was restricted to this book and the primary players in the mystery were all new and introduced as well as the setting so, in a sense, it was pretty easy to read/listen to it as a standalone or out of order.
Sir Robert Kurland had to undergo surgery for a leg infection that was a complication resulting from his time fighting in the Napoleonic War. To aid his recovery, his wife insists that they follow his doctor-friend Patrick's advice to spend some time in the hot sulphur baths of Bath. So, to this end, she rented a house on Queen Anne's Square and invites her sister Anne along. The doctor's wife, Penelope, invites herself.
Not long after they move into their rented home, they encounter their next door neighbors, the Bensons. Mr. Benson is from the North and built his fortune in trade. He knew Robert's grandfather and the blunt, crotchety old man starts to become a friend of Robert's. But, Mr. Benson's family dynamics are in shambles. He has a pretty, younger wife who engages in dramatics and sees the world as revolving around her. Mr. Benson's three sons and her two sons do not get along with each other or each other's parents while none except maybe Peregrine Benson gets along with the old man. Mr. Benson threatens to change his will and does so frequently enough. It's a situation rife for murder and the murder becomes reality soon enough.
Sir Robert's wife, Lucy, joins him on the quest to discover who did the murder and it forces them into contact with their annoying neighbors as well as weeding through the background and situation of each person showing plenty of motives and several opportunities.
I had a good time on the case with Robert and Lucy who were an interesting pair in their own right along with their friends and Lucy's sister. The mystery was joined by a few private plot threats from their circle of family and friends and the Regency background along with the Bath setting were well written.
It did pace out slower and had a few small lag moments, but I didn't mind since it got back going readily enough.
This was my first time experiencing Cat Gould's narration work and I thought she was a fab match for this style of story and a period mystery. I liked the way she voiced the main players and the servants for gender, age, and class and I liked her pace and tone throughout.
All in all, this was a fun and engaging historical cozy mystery that made me eager to go back to the beginning of the series and start from there to get the whole backstory as well as progress forward when the next book in the series releases. Definitely recommend.
My thanks to Tantor Audio for the opportunity to listen to this book in exchange for an honest review.
COYER Summer Scavenger Hunt Clue- book set in the Regency 1 pt.
I spotted this series a little while ago and just now had the chance to give it a go. I love reading books from the English Regency period and adding in a mystery becomes icing on the cake.
This was obviously a series that had been out for a while and, as I discovered, while listening, it probably would have worked much better getting it in order since the romance, family, and friend relationships developed over the course of the series.
Now, that said, the mystery was restricted to this book and the primary players in the mystery were all new and introduced as well as the setting so, in a sense, it was pretty easy to read/listen to it as a standalone or out of order.
Sir Robert Kurland had to undergo surgery for a leg infection that was a complication resulting from his time fighting in the Napoleonic War. To aid his recovery, his wife insists that they follow his doctor-friend Patrick's advice to spend some time in the hot sulphur baths of Bath. So, to this end, she rented a house on Queen Anne's Square and invites her sister Anne along. The doctor's wife, Penelope, invites herself.
Not long after they move into their rented home, they encounter their next door neighbors, the Bensons. Mr. Benson is from the North and built his fortune in trade. He knew Robert's grandfather and the blunt, crotchety old man starts to become a friend of Robert's. But, Mr. Benson's family dynamics are in shambles. He has a pretty, younger wife who engages in dramatics and sees the world as revolving around her. Mr. Benson's three sons and her two sons do not get along with each other or each other's parents while none except maybe Peregrine Benson gets along with the old man. Mr. Benson threatens to change his will and does so frequently enough. It's a situation rife for murder and the murder becomes reality soon enough.
Sir Robert's wife, Lucy, joins him on the quest to discover who did the murder and it forces them into contact with their annoying neighbors as well as weeding through the background and situation of each person showing plenty of motives and several opportunities.
I had a good time on the case with Robert and Lucy who were an interesting pair in their own right along with their friends and Lucy's sister. The mystery was joined by a few private plot threats from their circle of family and friends and the Regency background along with the Bath setting were well written.
It did pace out slower and had a few small lag moments, but I didn't mind since it got back going readily enough.
This was my first time experiencing Cat Gould's narration work and I thought she was a fab match for this style of story and a period mystery. I liked the way she voiced the main players and the servants for gender, age, and class and I liked her pace and tone throughout.
All in all, this was a fun and engaging historical cozy mystery that made me eager to go back to the beginning of the series and start from there to get the whole backstory as well as progress forward when the next book in the series releases. Definitely recommend.
My thanks to Tantor Audio for the opportunity to listen to this book in exchange for an honest review.
COYER Summer Scavenger Hunt Clue- book set in the Regency 1 pt.
November 26, 2018
Thanks to Netgalley, I had the opportunity it’s read what I consider the best in this mystery series. In the sixth installment, Sir Robert and Lucy travel to Bath for the healing waters for Robert’s health. While in Bath, Sir Robert befriends Sir William Benson, who ends up murdered by someone in his very obnoxious and grabby family. Lucy and Robert become immersed in the family’s feuds to solve the murder. Lucy’s sister, Anna, and Penelope, Sir Robert’s former fiancée, add dimension to the story. Highly recommend .
December 28, 2018
Great fun, and one of my favorite entries in this Regency series. Sir Robert Kurland and his wife, Lucy, have come to Bath so he can continue healing from complications from wounds he received at Waterloo.
A cantankerous, outspoken neighbor, Sir William Benson, is also partaking of the water cures for his health; having been knighted for his trade successes in Yorkshire, he has decided opinions about his disappointing sons, step-sons, and beautiful second wife. Sir Robert, reminded of his own Yorkshire grandfather, befriends the old coot and they keep each other company soaking in the hot baths - until Sir Robert and His doctor find the old man dead in the baths one morning. Was it his weak health, or murder? Since he was constantly threatening to disinherit his relations, Robert and Lucy suspect the worst...
This was fun, in that Lucy and Robert worked together, and Sir William’s family are all self-centered and greedy, with secrets to hide. There are red herrings and satisfying twists and turns, and a satisfying conclusion- I figured it out, but not too soon and I still enjoyed reading to the conclusion.
I enjoy this Regency cozy series, and look forward to the next book.
A cantankerous, outspoken neighbor, Sir William Benson, is also partaking of the water cures for his health; having been knighted for his trade successes in Yorkshire, he has decided opinions about his disappointing sons, step-sons, and beautiful second wife. Sir Robert, reminded of his own Yorkshire grandfather, befriends the old coot and they keep each other company soaking in the hot baths - until Sir Robert and His doctor find the old man dead in the baths one morning. Was it his weak health, or murder? Since he was constantly threatening to disinherit his relations, Robert and Lucy suspect the worst...
This was fun, in that Lucy and Robert worked together, and Sir William’s family are all self-centered and greedy, with secrets to hide. There are red herrings and satisfying twists and turns, and a satisfying conclusion- I figured it out, but not too soon and I still enjoyed reading to the conclusion.
I enjoy this Regency cozy series, and look forward to the next book.
January 2, 2019
Sir Robert and Lucy have been married three years now and been through a lot together. Now they face another crisis as Robert’s old wound becomes infected. Dr. Fletcher manages to save both Robert’s life and his leg but Lucy prescribes a few months in Bath so her beloved Robert can get back on his feet again. She brings along her younger sister Anna in hopes of finding a husband for the girl. Dr. Fletcher and his VERY pregnant – and cranky- wife tag along too. Shortly after arriving in Bath the Kurlands meet Sir William Benson, a friendly elderly man from the industrial North. Robert identifies with the industrialist right away and takes a strong liking to the man. However, Sir William’s family leaves a lot to be desired. The Kurlands are subjected to Lady Benson’s headaches, her sons and stepsons bickering and Sir William’s tirades against the rest of the family. Yikes! Then Robert arrives at the baths to bathe early one morning and discovers Sir William’s body under the water. While Dr. Fletcher makes every attempt to revive the man, it’s too late. The men discover something about the body that makes them think this was no accidental drowning death. When Lucy hears about Sir William’s death, she eagerly joins Robert in investigating the murder. It’s obvious one of the family members killed their patriarch, but which one? Lucy’s investigation is slightly hampered by illness and fatigue, not to mention the strain of having Penelope living under the same roof and a lovelorn Anna! Can they solve all their problems before the season ends?
I was super excited to read about my favorite characters in my favorite city in England. I spent several happy days in Bath and would love to return. While the Kurlands do not stay at Queen’s Square at Number 13 but rather next door at Number 12, the Bensons live next door presumably at 13. The cover image is all wrong and shows the modern day site of the Roman Bath Museum which did not exist, being the Kings and Queens baths at the time.
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/3376293...
Most of the period details about bathing and Bath seem to be accurate enough. Much of the language, however, has been modernized. As I love the characters and the plot, I was willing to overlook it but the modernized language took me out of the time period.
The plot is worthy of a Shakespeare play! There’s so much drama. I did figure out who did it but then I doubted myself before finally concluding I must have been right. I’m not sure the timeline works in the real world but as a novel, it keeps the pace moving. The Benson family is about as dysfunctional as they come. Sir William, who pleased Robert with his blunt manners and free speech, tyrannizes his family. Sir William often threatens to change his will and cut off one or more of his family members. He drinks too much and doesn’t hesitate to berate his family in public. Not that they don’t deserve it but don’t air your dirty laundry in front of strangers! Wasn’t that one of the major rules of etiquette? Lady Miranda Benson, Sir William’s much younger wife, is awful. She “suffers” from nerves, headaches and a general malaise. She has spoiled her two sons from a previous marriage and loathes her stepsons. Lady Miranda obviously married Sir William for his money, to support herself and her two horrid sons. The elder, Arden, might be all right if he had some military style discipline in his life. Arden is a spoiled, whiny boy. Brandon, his younger brother, is far worse. Brandon has a hasty temper and a bizarre sense of humor. He seems to be a lost cause.
Sir William’s own sons are not a whole lot better. The eldest, Edward, hopes to take over the family business but doesn’t have the drive or intelligence to do it. The middle son, Augustus, is a slimy sort of clergyman- worse than Lucy’s own father in his lack of religious convictions. Lucy likes the youngest son Peregrine but I do not. He’s too clever and snarky. He inherited the brains and the wit in the family. A playwright, Peregrine has earned his father’s disapproval and has every reason to want his father dead. Peregrine also has a strange sense of humor, taking delight in his family’s dysfunction. Rounding out the household is Dr. Mantel, the family doctor who mostly works to soothe Lady Miranda. He seems to be a doctor of the old school variety. I didn’t like how much he fawned over Lady Miranda and how he encouraged her to be so silly. More money for him, I suppose!
Sir Robert and Lucy are back on track. I have really enjoyed the development of their relationship over the years. I love how close they are and how deeply they love one another. Now they finally discussed their issues at the end of the previous book, they have a stronger bond and a better understanding of each other. I loved their quiet, intimate moments throughout the book. As a landowner and a Baronet Robert should be more conservative than he is but I wouldn’t want him to be any other way because he’s the hero and I want to love him. I don’t see Lucy as a “managing” female, just a woman who knows her own mind. She’s always logical and acts to do what she sees is right. She has no time or patience for shenanigans. She is bit dense in this novel though, regarding her own health.
Robert and Lucy are a stronger couple than Patrick and Penelope. What does he see in her? She’s a spoiled beauty, sheltered and used to getting what she wants. She would have made Robert’s life a nightmare. Almost every scene she’s in grates on my nerves, except for one. Patrick is a modern day doctor, much like Dr. Enys in the Poldark saga. Patrick is an army surgeon, familiar with serious wounds, injuries and unnatural death. He uses his observation and scientific reasoning to treat his patients-except for his pregnant wife! Lucy’s sister Anna is a sweetheart but also a ninny. I understand her concerns and would have the same ones but Captain Akers is a fine young man. I nearly swooned at his caring proposal. I loved Robert’s advice to Anna as well. Anna and Lucy both overthink too much and internalize and debate everything in their heads. I can really relate to that! I hope to see Anna’s relationship with Captain Akers develop more in the future.
This is another fabulous book in the series It works as a standalone but should best be read as a series to watch Robert and Lucy’s relationship develop from sparring partners, to investigative partners, to friends and finally lovers.
Content:
Some mild profanity
Violence
Bodily functions mentioned
Robert tells Lucy they can find better ways to occupy the time before dinner (hinting at making love)
I was super excited to read about my favorite characters in my favorite city in England. I spent several happy days in Bath and would love to return. While the Kurlands do not stay at Queen’s Square at Number 13 but rather next door at Number 12, the Bensons live next door presumably at 13. The cover image is all wrong and shows the modern day site of the Roman Bath Museum which did not exist, being the Kings and Queens baths at the time.
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/3376293...
Most of the period details about bathing and Bath seem to be accurate enough. Much of the language, however, has been modernized. As I love the characters and the plot, I was willing to overlook it but the modernized language took me out of the time period.
The plot is worthy of a Shakespeare play! There’s so much drama. I did figure out who did it but then I doubted myself before finally concluding I must have been right. I’m not sure the timeline works in the real world but as a novel, it keeps the pace moving. The Benson family is about as dysfunctional as they come. Sir William, who pleased Robert with his blunt manners and free speech, tyrannizes his family. Sir William often threatens to change his will and cut off one or more of his family members. He drinks too much and doesn’t hesitate to berate his family in public. Not that they don’t deserve it but don’t air your dirty laundry in front of strangers! Wasn’t that one of the major rules of etiquette? Lady Miranda Benson, Sir William’s much younger wife, is awful. She “suffers” from nerves, headaches and a general malaise. She has spoiled her two sons from a previous marriage and loathes her stepsons. Lady Miranda obviously married Sir William for his money, to support herself and her two horrid sons. The elder, Arden, might be all right if he had some military style discipline in his life. Arden is a spoiled, whiny boy. Brandon, his younger brother, is far worse. Brandon has a hasty temper and a bizarre sense of humor. He seems to be a lost cause.
Sir William’s own sons are not a whole lot better. The eldest, Edward, hopes to take over the family business but doesn’t have the drive or intelligence to do it. The middle son, Augustus, is a slimy sort of clergyman- worse than Lucy’s own father in his lack of religious convictions. Lucy likes the youngest son Peregrine but I do not. He’s too clever and snarky. He inherited the brains and the wit in the family. A playwright, Peregrine has earned his father’s disapproval and has every reason to want his father dead. Peregrine also has a strange sense of humor, taking delight in his family’s dysfunction. Rounding out the household is Dr. Mantel, the family doctor who mostly works to soothe Lady Miranda. He seems to be a doctor of the old school variety. I didn’t like how much he fawned over Lady Miranda and how he encouraged her to be so silly. More money for him, I suppose!
Sir Robert and Lucy are back on track. I have really enjoyed the development of their relationship over the years. I love how close they are and how deeply they love one another. Now they finally discussed their issues at the end of the previous book, they have a stronger bond and a better understanding of each other. I loved their quiet, intimate moments throughout the book. As a landowner and a Baronet Robert should be more conservative than he is but I wouldn’t want him to be any other way because he’s the hero and I want to love him. I don’t see Lucy as a “managing” female, just a woman who knows her own mind. She’s always logical and acts to do what she sees is right. She has no time or patience for shenanigans. She is bit dense in this novel though, regarding her own health.
Robert and Lucy are a stronger couple than Patrick and Penelope. What does he see in her? She’s a spoiled beauty, sheltered and used to getting what she wants. She would have made Robert’s life a nightmare. Almost every scene she’s in grates on my nerves, except for one. Patrick is a modern day doctor, much like Dr. Enys in the Poldark saga. Patrick is an army surgeon, familiar with serious wounds, injuries and unnatural death. He uses his observation and scientific reasoning to treat his patients-except for his pregnant wife! Lucy’s sister Anna is a sweetheart but also a ninny. I understand her concerns and would have the same ones but Captain Akers is a fine young man. I nearly swooned at his caring proposal. I loved Robert’s advice to Anna as well. Anna and Lucy both overthink too much and internalize and debate everything in their heads. I can really relate to that! I hope to see Anna’s relationship with Captain Akers develop more in the future.
This is another fabulous book in the series It works as a standalone but should best be read as a series to watch Robert and Lucy’s relationship develop from sparring partners, to investigative partners, to friends and finally lovers.
Content:
Some mild profanity
Violence
Bodily functions mentioned
Robert tells Lucy they can find better ways to occupy the time before dinner (hinting at making love)
February 11, 2020
I really love this series by Ms. Lloyd and I am always waiting for the next one to be available at my local library. A cozy mystery with very likable characters and a murder that has Robert and Lucy on the trail of another killer. The secondary characters really add dimension to this story as the Benson family are amazingly dysfunctional throughout the book. Penelope Fletcher being pregnant and forcing herself into excursion to Bath was often amusing and also tiresome. She really does need someone to give her a reality check.
September 29, 2020
very cute historical cozy mystery. I've definitely missed out of some developments in the series, but I found this caper enjoyable
April 5, 2019
New release.. series fav.
December 6, 2018
I was in the mood for a light mystery, and I like Regency-era England books, so gave it a try.
If you are in the mood for a very light mystery with very obvious villains, plus perhaps a dash of romance, this might be fine. I thought I would be fine with it, but the villains were too obvious in their mustache twirling- actually laughing and clapping when hearing about the murder victim- and the main characters felt cookie-cutter to me. Stubborn gentleman, smart, managing wife. It was decidedly meh for me. I chose not to finish it because I found myself bored and frustrated while reading it.
If you are in the mood for a very light mystery with very obvious villains, plus perhaps a dash of romance, this might be fine. I thought I would be fine with it, but the villains were too obvious in their mustache twirling- actually laughing and clapping when hearing about the murder victim- and the main characters felt cookie-cutter to me. Stubborn gentleman, smart, managing wife. It was decidedly meh for me. I chose not to finish it because I found myself bored and frustrated while reading it.
December 11, 2018
Sir Robert and Lady Lucy Kurland are taking the waters at Bath for the sole purpose of Sir Robert recovery from a war wound which he got whilst at Waterloo. Lucy wants to help him out and the house taken for three months seems to be a good option.
Bath however is not good for everyone and their immediate neighbours, whom they know are struck by the first disaster the death of Sir William. There is a Lady William and her two sons, there are three sons from his first marriage and the ensuing battle, and cross talk amongst them all makes it very obvious that more than one person wanted to get rid of Sir William - father or not.
Lucy and Robert face the predicament of knowing there is a murderer in their midst and signs point to all of the five sons. To narrow it down needs a certain amount of judicious probing and this they do admirably. The final villain is unexpected and obvious!
Very nicely told in a very genteel time in England this was a very welcome read.
Bath however is not good for everyone and their immediate neighbours, whom they know are struck by the first disaster the death of Sir William. There is a Lady William and her two sons, there are three sons from his first marriage and the ensuing battle, and cross talk amongst them all makes it very obvious that more than one person wanted to get rid of Sir William - father or not.
Lucy and Robert face the predicament of knowing there is a murderer in their midst and signs point to all of the five sons. To narrow it down needs a certain amount of judicious probing and this they do admirably. The final villain is unexpected and obvious!
Very nicely told in a very genteel time in England this was a very welcome read.
March 17, 2020
This is one of my favorite series and these books are true comfort reads. I love visiting with Sir Robert and Lady Kurland on their adventures. The Bath setting was beautifully done. I enjoyed the well-drawn characters of Sir William's malevolent family. Untangling the murder was an enjoyable pastime.
December 21, 2018
I enjoyed this sixth entry in the series. Death Comes to Bath is the first book in the series that I have read, and I had no trouble navigating the characters or story. The pace is good, the early nineteenth century era interesting, and the mystery well thought out.
January 12, 2019
Loved this book so much even though the bad guy was sooo obvious and I guessed who it was almost right away.
January 31, 2019
The mystery was very interesting. I had a feeling about the villain, but there were enough twists and turns that I enjoyed the mystery. Looking forward to the next installment.
July 7, 2019
Death Comes to Bath is a quaint cozy mystery. I enjoyed it, except for the overuse of italics to stress words, which became quite distracting.
November 11, 2019
I enjoy reading about the Regency time period.
December 4, 2020
The depiction of Bath was inaccurate because it never rained!
October 1, 2024
The mystery in this book was really good. And I especially like that Lucy and Robert worked together to solve the murder.
April 9, 2019
This is the sixth in the Kurland St. Mary mysteries! I have enjoyed reading them. The mysteries are great and the solutions, satisfying!
April 7, 2023
In this installment there is a change of scenery as, per the advise of Dr. Fletcher, the Kurland travel to bath in order for a reluctant Robert to help his chronic leg pain. I truly felt transported back in time as this intrepid couple gets caught up in another murder. It took me the entire story and I couldn’t guess the murder.
I loved how Penelope, now Mrs. Fletcher finagled getting free trip to Bath at the Kurlands expense. Penelope’s labor scene was hysterical, “I’m m all wet, what in earth is going on?” I’m glad the awful villains got their comeuppance.
I loved how Penelope, now Mrs. Fletcher finagled getting free trip to Bath at the Kurlands expense. Penelope’s labor scene was hysterical, “I’m m all wet, what in earth is going on?” I’m glad the awful villains got their comeuppance.
August 12, 2024
The Kurland St. Mary series goes down oh so smoothly every time. I love these characters and how they've grown. This time around, they head to the village of Bath for some time in the healing springs and...there's another murder! It truly never gets old because the characters have really progressed as the series gone on. I can't believe there's only two more books in the series!
May 18, 2024
Audio book. I enjoyed the story and only partially solved the mystery before the end. I had guessed the murderer but not why. It’s a while since I accessed this series so it was good to be reminded of its merits.
The narration was detrimental to my full enjoyment. She tried for an English upper class accent and as I believe she is actually Australian, it sounded very artificial.
The narration was detrimental to my full enjoyment. She tried for an English upper class accent and as I believe she is actually Australian, it sounded very artificial.
September 9, 2025
A nice way to relax before bed. I liked the setting in Bath. Made me think of Jane Austin novels, probably intentionally. I figured out the mystery early on.
August 21, 2019
This suffered from the same malaise that has affected several of the books in the series - the details! She does a great job creating atmosphere, fun characters (both new and old), and an engaging drama that’s played out for us. But she tends to drop the ball on the details, and considering mystery novels are supposed to hinge on clues sprinkled throughout the text, it’s hard to know what’s a clue and what’s a mistake.
The book is supposed to take place just a short time after the previous novel, but the date at the beginning has jumped an entire year (Death Comes to the School took place in December 1820, and this opens in January 1822, yet Penelope is still pregnant with her first child so we are left to assume that’s a mistake). Later she mentions to Robert that he has hated being bedridden the last few weeks, then shortly after they mention that actually a few months have passed! A date is never mentioned again so I don’t know when the main body of the work is supposed to take place- are we still in January? March? Who knows! Lastly they meet their new neighbor immediately upon arriving in town and make plans for dinner that Friday. The new chapter starts and Robert says he has been in Bath doing his treatments for two weeks, but the dinner is still coming up. There’s no mention of rescheduling it so we just have to let that go as well.
This is not related to the chronology problems, but they mention several times how Anna has assisted with births, but at the time a gently reared young woman would not have been permitted to attend a birth until she was married and, ideally, had had a child of her own. Even Lucy attending would have been a stretch because she was still childless and it was thought improper for women to know too much about the “miracle of birth”. Anna definitely would not have been permitted to!
Despite the complaints (which really almost entirely boil down to the fact that whoever is editing these books does not do a careful job) I keep coming back to them because they are intriguing, entertaining, and fun. I figured out the murderer about halfway through, but not the motivation or if there were any accomplices, so it still kept me guessing. I can put up with a lot for a mystery that doesn’t immediately telegraph the ending so I will keep reading them as long as she writes them.
The book is supposed to take place just a short time after the previous novel, but the date at the beginning has jumped an entire year (Death Comes to the School took place in December 1820, and this opens in January 1822, yet Penelope is still pregnant with her first child so we are left to assume that’s a mistake). Later she mentions to Robert that he has hated being bedridden the last few weeks, then shortly after they mention that actually a few months have passed! A date is never mentioned again so I don’t know when the main body of the work is supposed to take place- are we still in January? March? Who knows! Lastly they meet their new neighbor immediately upon arriving in town and make plans for dinner that Friday. The new chapter starts and Robert says he has been in Bath doing his treatments for two weeks, but the dinner is still coming up. There’s no mention of rescheduling it so we just have to let that go as well.
This is not related to the chronology problems, but they mention several times how Anna has assisted with births, but at the time a gently reared young woman would not have been permitted to attend a birth until she was married and, ideally, had had a child of her own. Even Lucy attending would have been a stretch because she was still childless and it was thought improper for women to know too much about the “miracle of birth”. Anna definitely would not have been permitted to!
Despite the complaints (which really almost entirely boil down to the fact that whoever is editing these books does not do a careful job) I keep coming back to them because they are intriguing, entertaining, and fun. I figured out the murderer about halfway through, but not the motivation or if there were any accomplices, so it still kept me guessing. I can put up with a lot for a mystery that doesn’t immediately telegraph the ending so I will keep reading them as long as she writes them.
February 14, 2019
I have almost absolutely no experience with historical fiction so my opinion might not be as helpful as others, but residing in Bath (my obvious reason for requesting to read this book - and, while we're on it, huge thanks to Kensington Books for the opportunity to read this in exchange for my honest review) IT WAS MY ABSOLUTE PLEASURE.
This story felt like a fragile piece that's been carefully crocheted together with threads of research and abundant imagination.
The characters were vivid and fantastically timely, which gives the reader the opportunity for proper time-travel while thinking through the murder mystery.
Seeing that I rather quickly fell in love with all of their mentions of buying gowns etc. here are some samples of what regent dresses circa 1820's looked like:
Their routes in Bath:
What can I say? I highly recommend this book to anyone who would like an authentic and historic journey down the murderous path of Bath.
This story felt like a fragile piece that's been carefully crocheted together with threads of research and abundant imagination.
The characters were vivid and fantastically timely, which gives the reader the opportunity for proper time-travel while thinking through the murder mystery.
Seeing that I rather quickly fell in love with all of their mentions of buying gowns etc. here are some samples of what regent dresses circa 1820's looked like:
Their routes in Bath:
What can I say? I highly recommend this book to anyone who would like an authentic and historic journey down the murderous path of Bath.
May 8, 2021
3.5 stars rounded down to 3.
My favorite thing about this book was the descriptions of Bath, which is why I picked it up. I spent a semester there, and the author is obviously familiar with the town and basic layout. She clearly did some research on what it would be like in the 1820s, past its haydey but still lively.
Sir Robert and Lady Lucy Kurland are both entertaining, practical lead characters to follow around, and they're an adorable couple who are devoted to each other. Things got a little outrageous with the mystery itself; the family whose patriarch is murdered is particularly dysfunctional and seem to have few qualms about airing very personal baggage in front of practical strangers (for story purposes so that they can glean enough information to solve the mystery). Things took a tad too long to resolve themselves in my opinion and then got wrapped up a tad too fast, but that's probably because I figured out 'whodunnit' about halfway through the book and then kept waiting for Robert and Lucy to realize that there was one person they hadn't considered yet who still obviously had both means and motive. The author is careful to keep said person constantly in the background of everything but never bring them up as a possible suspect in order to keep our attention away from them, but for me at least it didn't work.
The story does function as standalone; it is not necessary to have read the previous five books in order to pick this one up and enjoy it.
My favorite thing about this book was the descriptions of Bath, which is why I picked it up. I spent a semester there, and the author is obviously familiar with the town and basic layout. She clearly did some research on what it would be like in the 1820s, past its haydey but still lively.
Sir Robert and Lady Lucy Kurland are both entertaining, practical lead characters to follow around, and they're an adorable couple who are devoted to each other. Things got a little outrageous with the mystery itself; the family whose patriarch is murdered is particularly dysfunctional and seem to have few qualms about airing very personal baggage in front of practical strangers (for story purposes so that they can glean enough information to solve the mystery). Things took a tad too long to resolve themselves in my opinion and then got wrapped up a tad too fast, but that's probably because I figured out 'whodunnit' about halfway through the book and then kept waiting for Robert and Lucy to realize that there was one person they hadn't considered yet who still obviously had both means and motive. The author is careful to keep said person constantly in the background of everything but never bring them up as a possible suspect in order to keep our attention away from them, but for me at least it didn't work.
The story does function as standalone; it is not necessary to have read the previous five books in order to pick this one up and enjoy it.
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