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Lady Fan Mystery #1
The Gilded Shroud
The perfect mix of historical murder and mystery with a hint of romance! For fans of Georgette Heyer, Mary Balogh, Barbara Erskine and Jane Austen.
When a murder is committed a lady’s companion finds herself as an amateur sleuth…
1789, London
When Emily Fanshawe, Marchioness of Polbrook, is found strangled in her bedchamber, suspicion immediately falls on those residing in the grand house in Hanover Square.
Emily’s husband - Randal Fanshawe, Lord Polbrook - fled in the night and is chief suspect – much to the dismay of his family.
Ottilia Draycott is brought in as the new lady’s companion to Sybilla, Dowager Marchioness and soon finds herself assisting younger son, Lord Francis Fanshawe in his investigations.
Can Ottilia help clear the family name? Does the killer still reside in the house?
Or could there be more to the mystery than meets the eye…?
THE GILDED SHROUD is the first book in the Lady Fan Mystery series: historical romance murder mysteries with a courageous woman sleuth embarking on a traditional British, private investigation in eighteenth-century London.
When a murder is committed a lady’s companion finds herself as an amateur sleuth…
1789, London
When Emily Fanshawe, Marchioness of Polbrook, is found strangled in her bedchamber, suspicion immediately falls on those residing in the grand house in Hanover Square.
Emily’s husband - Randal Fanshawe, Lord Polbrook - fled in the night and is chief suspect – much to the dismay of his family.
Ottilia Draycott is brought in as the new lady’s companion to Sybilla, Dowager Marchioness and soon finds herself assisting younger son, Lord Francis Fanshawe in his investigations.
Can Ottilia help clear the family name? Does the killer still reside in the house?
Or could there be more to the mystery than meets the eye…?
THE GILDED SHROUD is the first book in the Lady Fan Mystery series: historical romance murder mysteries with a courageous woman sleuth embarking on a traditional British, private investigation in eighteenth-century London.
392 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 10, 1992
2038 people are currently reading
2165 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Bailey
95 books304 followersAn avid reader from an early age, Elizabeth Bailey grew up in colonial Africa under unconventional parentage and with theatre in the blood. Back in England, she trod the boards until discovering her true métier as a writer in her thirties, when she fulfilled an early addiction to Georgette Heyer by launching into historical romance. Eight years and eight books later, Elizabeth joined the Harlequin Mills & Boon stable, fuelling her writing with a secondary career teaching and directing drama, and writing plays into the bargain.
With 18 historicals published, Elizabeth turned to other genres, producing two titles (Fly the Wild Echoes and For One More Tomorrow) in the cross-genre literary/paranormal field as well as a suspense novella (Silence of a Stranger). She has several short stories available too and a guide for writers on editing.
Continuing her foray into other genres, but returning to her favourite historical period, Elizabeth turned to mystery. She placed her female sleuth in the late Georgian world of intrigue, elegance, aristocrats and rogues, where privilege rubbed shoulders with the harsh realities of making ends meet. While Ottilia moves in the upper echelon of Society, she is thoroughly at ease in the lower, which allows Elizabeth to cross boundaries with impunity. These novels are now published with Sapere Books and the list continues to grow.
Sapere also publish her Brides by Chance Regency Adventures, a series dedicated to the countless women who could not ordinarily hope for romance and marriage: poor relations, dowerless females, those who did not "take", orphans. In a word, the classic Cinderella heroine.
Now retired from teaching, Elizabeth concentrates on writing and promotion, with a sideline in running an assessment critique service for writers.
With 18 historicals published, Elizabeth turned to other genres, producing two titles (Fly the Wild Echoes and For One More Tomorrow) in the cross-genre literary/paranormal field as well as a suspense novella (Silence of a Stranger). She has several short stories available too and a guide for writers on editing.
Continuing her foray into other genres, but returning to her favourite historical period, Elizabeth turned to mystery. She placed her female sleuth in the late Georgian world of intrigue, elegance, aristocrats and rogues, where privilege rubbed shoulders with the harsh realities of making ends meet. While Ottilia moves in the upper echelon of Society, she is thoroughly at ease in the lower, which allows Elizabeth to cross boundaries with impunity. These novels are now published with Sapere Books and the list continues to grow.
Sapere also publish her Brides by Chance Regency Adventures, a series dedicated to the countless women who could not ordinarily hope for romance and marriage: poor relations, dowerless females, those who did not "take", orphans. In a word, the classic Cinderella heroine.
Now retired from teaching, Elizabeth concentrates on writing and promotion, with a sideline in running an assessment critique service for writers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 334 reviews
December 10, 2019
2.5 stars
Literally this book:
Ottilia: "I am Ottilia AND I LOVE MURDER. The lady who just hired me has a daughter-in-law who was brutally strangled? EXCELLENT. I was worried I'd be bored."
Everyone: "Wow, Ottilia! You're so smart! You're so shrewd! You can figure out anything!"
Ottilia: "I know y'all just lost a family member but THIS IS GREAT. I'm going to giggle as we discuss the many ways she could have died."
Family of the deceased woman: "Our family member was just murdered but thank goodness you are here, person-we-just-met! You'll set everything to rights."
Ottilia: "I'm going to smile at all the servants and they will tell me everything I want to know!"
Servants: "You're so nice and smart! We'll tell you everything except who we think the SUPER OBVIOUS MURDERER is."
Family of the deceased woman: "Wow, we're just, like, so lucky to have you! You'll single handily solve the mystery."
Ottilia: "Why, yes, yes I will. And while I'm at it, men and women should both be faithful in marriage!"
Family of the deceased woman: "Wow, such wisdom! Such intelligence! You're the best!"
Bow Street Runners: "Wow! You're so smart! We'll totally do what you say. You must be right about the killer."
Random lord + every other male: "Ever think about running for Parliament? Oh wait, you're a woman and cannot. Too bad. You're so smart. Maybe we could change the law and let you run."
Family of the deceased woman: "We should so get Ottilia into Parliament! Or, should we be, I don't know, planning a funeral? Nah, let's just talk about how great Ottilia is."
Ottilia: "Oh, btw, this is the murderer."
Family of the deceased woman: "That's great and all. But lets talk about how amazing Ottilia is instead."
Murderer: "And I would have gotten away with it too if it wasn't for the meddling Ottilia!"
The end.
The murderer was super obvious, the story dragged on too long, and the title has nothing to do with the story. The book also, shall we say, plays loose with history and details. Everyone is sooooo affirming. But it was lighthearted and fun enough to hold my attention. I might read more. I might not. For a good regency cozy mystery I recommend checking out A Brazen Curiosity instead.
Literally this book:
Ottilia: "I am Ottilia AND I LOVE MURDER. The lady who just hired me has a daughter-in-law who was brutally strangled? EXCELLENT. I was worried I'd be bored."
Everyone: "Wow, Ottilia! You're so smart! You're so shrewd! You can figure out anything!"
Ottilia: "I know y'all just lost a family member but THIS IS GREAT. I'm going to giggle as we discuss the many ways she could have died."
Family of the deceased woman: "Our family member was just murdered but thank goodness you are here, person-we-just-met! You'll set everything to rights."
Ottilia: "I'm going to smile at all the servants and they will tell me everything I want to know!"
Servants: "You're so nice and smart! We'll tell you everything except who we think the SUPER OBVIOUS MURDERER is."
Family of the deceased woman: "Wow, we're just, like, so lucky to have you! You'll single handily solve the mystery."
Ottilia: "Why, yes, yes I will. And while I'm at it, men and women should both be faithful in marriage!"
Family of the deceased woman: "Wow, such wisdom! Such intelligence! You're the best!"
Bow Street Runners: "Wow! You're so smart! We'll totally do what you say. You must be right about the killer."
Random lord + every other male: "Ever think about running for Parliament? Oh wait, you're a woman and cannot. Too bad. You're so smart. Maybe we could change the law and let you run."
Family of the deceased woman: "We should so get Ottilia into Parliament! Or, should we be, I don't know, planning a funeral? Nah, let's just talk about how great Ottilia is."
Ottilia: "Oh, btw, this is the murderer."
Family of the deceased woman: "That's great and all. But lets talk about how amazing Ottilia is instead."
Murderer: "And I would have gotten away with it too if it wasn't for the meddling Ottilia!"
The end.
The murderer was super obvious, the story dragged on too long, and the title has nothing to do with the story. The book also, shall we say, plays loose with history and details. Everyone is sooooo affirming. But it was lighthearted and fun enough to hold my attention. I might read more. I might not. For a good regency cozy mystery I recommend checking out A Brazen Curiosity instead.
September 29, 2014
I was severely not a fan of this. The author was quite fluent with the period language, and that's about where my tolerance ceased.
When we meet out heroine, she is eating breakfast with her new employer, a dowager marchioness she first laid eyes on for a mere five minutes the night before. Trusted and long-standing friend and adviser she is not. Then the dowager's younger son bursts in, with the news that the current marchioness has been violently murdered in her bed.
In the scene that follows, our heroine repeatedly butts in, laughs, smiles, and asks personal questions about the marital relationship of the dead woman.
I am from a much more tolerant and open era than the one in which this is set and I thought Ottilia was intensely rude and obnoxious. However, not only don't the dowager or her son mind, they are charmed by this horrible woman's interruptions. Somehow they agree to let Ottilia lead the investigation to find the murderer. (?!) I have no idea what the author thinks Ottilia did to make anyone in the novel propose or endorse this.
However, throughout the rest of the book, characters exclaim nonsensically over Ottilia's "genius": for example, seeking to learn how the murderer entered the house, she takes the bold step of... asking the butler to show her where the doors are! So clever. Then she reports her "discoveries" (of doors that are all used in the day-to-day running of the house) to her employer, who used to live in this same house. The dowager thanks heaven Ottilia came to them in this time of trouble.
I need to point out here that none of the main characters are intended by the author to be lunatics or fools.
The younger son of the dowager is improbably charmed by our proto-Sherlock heroine. There's one point where the pair stop themselves in the midst of some dramatic (and fairly important) eavesdropping to discuss how cute it is that Ottilia has nephews. Thankfully the person they are eavesdropping on knew to pause his revelations and wait for the flirting to be over, so that no one missed anything important. And take that early scene, in which Francis has just come from actually seeing his sister-in-law's corpse hideously strangled and now has to tell his mother about her death and the disappearance of his brother: despite all this turmoil, he's got the time and the goodwill to spare for some lighthearted chitchat with the callously laughing stranger sitting at the breakfast table, who can't even be bothered to offer to leave the room when something clearly private is about to be discussed.
Actually, that might be unfair. I no longer have the book, so I can't check if maybe Ottilia did offer to leave but was told to remain. But that is almost worse, and brings me to another serious objection that I had while reading this. It's 1789, we are told these people rank highly in society, and yet never once do they worry about the scandal this murder will cause. The idea seems to be that it will reflect badly on them if the marquis turns out to be the killer, but if not, they're okay. And they better make sure to talk about it to everyone. It's baffling.
I also don't think the author was aware of how loosely the Bow Street Runners would fit our current definition of "police force," or how regional or class-defined accents work, or what the lives of the servant class were really like, or how inheritance worked in that time and place (this one annoyed me profoundly; a big deal is made of what the contents of the dead woman's will are, but... who cares, because in that era all of that would have been settled at the time her marriage took place ), or... whatever. After a while it got too stupid to care.
When we meet out heroine, she is eating breakfast with her new employer, a dowager marchioness she first laid eyes on for a mere five minutes the night before. Trusted and long-standing friend and adviser she is not. Then the dowager's younger son bursts in, with the news that the current marchioness has been violently murdered in her bed.
In the scene that follows, our heroine repeatedly butts in, laughs, smiles, and asks personal questions about the marital relationship of the dead woman.
I am from a much more tolerant and open era than the one in which this is set and I thought Ottilia was intensely rude and obnoxious. However, not only don't the dowager or her son mind, they are charmed by this horrible woman's interruptions. Somehow they agree to let Ottilia lead the investigation to find the murderer. (?!) I have no idea what the author thinks Ottilia did to make anyone in the novel propose or endorse this.
However, throughout the rest of the book, characters exclaim nonsensically over Ottilia's "genius": for example, seeking to learn how the murderer entered the house, she takes the bold step of... asking the butler to show her where the doors are! So clever. Then she reports her "discoveries" (of doors that are all used in the day-to-day running of the house) to her employer, who used to live in this same house. The dowager thanks heaven Ottilia came to them in this time of trouble.
I need to point out here that none of the main characters are intended by the author to be lunatics or fools.
The younger son of the dowager is improbably charmed by our proto-Sherlock heroine. There's one point where the pair stop themselves in the midst of some dramatic (and fairly important) eavesdropping to discuss how cute it is that Ottilia has nephews. Thankfully the person they are eavesdropping on knew to pause his revelations and wait for the flirting to be over, so that no one missed anything important. And take that early scene, in which Francis has just come from actually seeing his sister-in-law's corpse hideously strangled and now has to tell his mother about her death and the disappearance of his brother: despite all this turmoil, he's got the time and the goodwill to spare for some lighthearted chitchat with the callously laughing stranger sitting at the breakfast table, who can't even be bothered to offer to leave the room when something clearly private is about to be discussed.
Actually, that might be unfair. I no longer have the book, so I can't check if maybe Ottilia did offer to leave but was told to remain. But that is almost worse, and brings me to another serious objection that I had while reading this. It's 1789, we are told these people rank highly in society, and yet never once do they worry about the scandal this murder will cause. The idea seems to be that it will reflect badly on them if the marquis turns out to be the killer, but if not, they're okay. And they better make sure to talk about it to everyone. It's baffling.
I also don't think the author was aware of how loosely the Bow Street Runners would fit our current definition of "police force," or how regional or class-defined accents work, or what the lives of the servant class were really like, or how inheritance worked in that time and place (this one annoyed me profoundly; a big deal is made of what the contents of the dead woman's will are, but... who cares, because in that era all of that would have been settled at the time her marriage took place ), or... whatever. After a while it got too stupid to care.
July 4, 2018
I fell in love with the cover of this new mystery series. I love the stunning house and the richness of the scene. Without so much as a backward glance I eagerly agreed to review it.
Plus it is the first in a new series and I love getting in on the ground levels when it comes to new detective series.
This book lacks a really good summary for readers which was a little frustrating but I love mysteries set in Regency or Victorian era England so while I didn’t know much about the book when I agreed to review it, I trusted that my love of history would be enough.
The author has a wonderful grasp of the language and period. I loved how well her dialogue meshed in the period and with the different characters. I don’t know that I liked the name Ottilia for the main character—mostly because I couldn’t pronounce it—but the overall tone of the book and dialogue between characters had the ring of authenticity to it.
I mystery has a budding romance woven in which was fun and helped move the story along, but for me it almost seemed more like historical romance with a touch of mystery—not the other way around—which I believe was the intent (mystery with a touch of romance, rather than the opposite). I didn’t care that this had more romance than mystery or nice versa, I liked the romance and felt that it was a nice tactic. I read that the author started out writing romance novels and I can see that this is a genre in which she shines.
While this was an easy read with a satisfying mystery and romance mixture, I think it was a little too much of a reach for me when it came to the classes. Ottilia seemed to be readily accepted into the upper echelons with no one seeming to bat an eye. For me it all came a little too easy. I understand that the circumstances were meant to make this detail bendable, but for me I didn’t think there was enough to justify the level of acceptance that she had in the family.
Overall I felt that this book was good but not great. I liked the mystery and romance just fine but some things just seemed like a reach and too much for me to buy into. I would probably read the next book in the series but I wouldn’t move other books to make room for it if that makes sense.
See my full review here
Plus it is the first in a new series and I love getting in on the ground levels when it comes to new detective series.
This book lacks a really good summary for readers which was a little frustrating but I love mysteries set in Regency or Victorian era England so while I didn’t know much about the book when I agreed to review it, I trusted that my love of history would be enough.
The author has a wonderful grasp of the language and period. I loved how well her dialogue meshed in the period and with the different characters. I don’t know that I liked the name Ottilia for the main character—mostly because I couldn’t pronounce it—but the overall tone of the book and dialogue between characters had the ring of authenticity to it.
I mystery has a budding romance woven in which was fun and helped move the story along, but for me it almost seemed more like historical romance with a touch of mystery—not the other way around—which I believe was the intent (mystery with a touch of romance, rather than the opposite). I didn’t care that this had more romance than mystery or nice versa, I liked the romance and felt that it was a nice tactic. I read that the author started out writing romance novels and I can see that this is a genre in which she shines.
While this was an easy read with a satisfying mystery and romance mixture, I think it was a little too much of a reach for me when it came to the classes. Ottilia seemed to be readily accepted into the upper echelons with no one seeming to bat an eye. For me it all came a little too easy. I understand that the circumstances were meant to make this detail bendable, but for me I didn’t think there was enough to justify the level of acceptance that she had in the family.
Overall I felt that this book was good but not great. I liked the mystery and romance just fine but some things just seemed like a reach and too much for me to buy into. I would probably read the next book in the series but I wouldn’t move other books to make room for it if that makes sense.
See my full review here
August 28, 2019
For my full review, visit me at https://mrsbrownsbooks.wordpress.com/...
I enjoyed the easy escapism that this novel provided. Another cosy, historical mystery, it was easy to picture Ottilia investigating the murder at a house that is bustling with servants, and therefore, suspects. Whilst it was a little far-fetched, overlooking this and you are provided with a well-written, developing story.
For my full review, visit me at https://mrsbrownsbooks.wordpress.com/...
I enjoyed the easy escapism that this novel provided. Another cosy, historical mystery, it was easy to picture Ottilia investigating the murder at a house that is bustling with servants, and therefore, suspects. Whilst it was a little far-fetched, overlooking this and you are provided with a well-written, developing story.
For my full review, visit me at https://mrsbrownsbooks.wordpress.com/...
May 30, 2020
A light and comforting read, not very demanding and just what I needed.
June 3, 2020
It was okay and held my interest. I may even read the next one.
However, I kept thinking that the personal relationships between Ottilia and the Dowager happened much too fast. Our heroine went from being a newly hired companion to bosom beau in the space of several days. Likewise Ottilia's romance with Lord Francis went from first meeting to marriage proposal in a week! I rolled my eyes, a lot!
I was also disappointed in the lack of depth to the historical setting. The few historical events mentioned in passing indicate that the year is 1789. The story could have been set in 1889 for all that this reader could tell.
However, I kept thinking that the personal relationships between Ottilia and the Dowager happened much too fast. Our heroine went from being a newly hired companion to bosom beau in the space of several days. Likewise Ottilia's romance with Lord Francis went from first meeting to marriage proposal in a week! I rolled my eyes, a lot!
I was also disappointed in the lack of depth to the historical setting. The few historical events mentioned in passing indicate that the year is 1789. The story could have been set in 1889 for all that this reader could tell.
April 27, 2018
I would like to thank Sapere Books for an advance copy of The Gilded Shroud, the first novel to feature Ottilia Draycott, set in late 18th century London.
Ottilia has just taken up a new job as companion to the Dowager Lady Polbrook when news come that Emily, the current Lady Polbrook, has been strangled to death in her bed and that her husband, Randal, Lord Polbrook who has left for parts unknown is the prime suspect. To ease the burden of shock Ottilia teams up with Polbrook's brother, Lord Francis Fanshawe to discover the real murderer.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Gilded Shroud which is a fun read although I feel it is a little long as it flags and gets slightly repetitive in the third quarter. In tone it is reminiscent of Georgette Heyer with its setting, vocabulary, character styling, gentle romance and light humour but the theme is vastly different in that it is the dissection of Emily's sex life that yields many more suspects. The plotting is ingenious and depends on details given in interviews as there are none of the forensics we have come to rely on, so keep your wits about you. To the seasoned crime reader the perpetrator is not particularly well disguised but as the motive and opportunity are it hardly matters.
Much of the pleasure in the novel comes from the dialogue and light romance between Ottilia and Francis. It is fun and as the outcome is not in doubt (why else would the series be called Lady Fan?) I just sat back and enjoyed. Ottilia is smart and savvy, having learned her knowledge of human nature, Miss Marple style, from looking after her nephews. Francis is more the strong, man of action type with enough smarts to take direction from the clear sighted Ottilia, a marriage made in heaven.
The Gilded Shroud is a good read which I have no hesitation in recommending.
Ottilia has just taken up a new job as companion to the Dowager Lady Polbrook when news come that Emily, the current Lady Polbrook, has been strangled to death in her bed and that her husband, Randal, Lord Polbrook who has left for parts unknown is the prime suspect. To ease the burden of shock Ottilia teams up with Polbrook's brother, Lord Francis Fanshawe to discover the real murderer.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Gilded Shroud which is a fun read although I feel it is a little long as it flags and gets slightly repetitive in the third quarter. In tone it is reminiscent of Georgette Heyer with its setting, vocabulary, character styling, gentle romance and light humour but the theme is vastly different in that it is the dissection of Emily's sex life that yields many more suspects. The plotting is ingenious and depends on details given in interviews as there are none of the forensics we have come to rely on, so keep your wits about you. To the seasoned crime reader the perpetrator is not particularly well disguised but as the motive and opportunity are it hardly matters.
Much of the pleasure in the novel comes from the dialogue and light romance between Ottilia and Francis. It is fun and as the outcome is not in doubt (why else would the series be called Lady Fan?) I just sat back and enjoyed. Ottilia is smart and savvy, having learned her knowledge of human nature, Miss Marple style, from looking after her nephews. Francis is more the strong, man of action type with enough smarts to take direction from the clear sighted Ottilia, a marriage made in heaven.
The Gilded Shroud is a good read which I have no hesitation in recommending.
April 12, 2021
The Gilded Shroud
Lady Fan Mystery Series #1
Elizabeth Bailey
https://www.facebook.com/authorelizab...
Release Date 06/21/2018
Publisher Sapere Books
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
The perfect mix of historical murder and mystery with a hint of romance! For fans of Georgette Heyer, Mary Balogh, Barbara Erskine and Jane Austen. When a murder is committed a lady’s companion finds herself as an amateur sleuth…
1789, London
When Emily Fanshawe, Marchioness of Polbrook, is found strangled in her bedchamber, suspicion immediately falls on those residing in the grand house in Hanover Square.
Emily’s husband – Randal Fanshawe, Lord Polbrook – fled in the night and is chief suspect – much to the dismay of his family.
Ottilia Draycott is brought in as the new lady’s companion to Sybilla, Dowager Marchioness and soon finds herself assisting younger son, Lord Francis Fanshawe in his investigations.
Can Ottilia help clear the family name? Does the killer still reside in the house?
Or could there be more to the mystery than meets the eye…?
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
I thought I could escape having read none of the previous books in this series, but after 3/4 chapters I definitely needed more knowledge about the leading character, or I would come to resent her for her not fear treatment of an other character.
Plus the many side protagonists put me at loss at time about them and their actions. I knew I would not catch up with everything but I supposed the introducing novel to this series would offer some insights about the heroine and the working of her mind.
So here I am.
First the period is new to me, most of the historical mysteries I have read were set during the Victorian era, here it is the under the reign of King George III, two decades before the Regency.
And the heroine, wow, she is quite a force to be reckoned. No Miss nor debutante, she takes matter in hands in an instant, and even subdues those who should have taken exception. She steps and charges in, acting more like a man than a woman of her era. Only older matrons were allowed to be so blunt and could go unscathed by society’s scorn. Yet she just lands in her new place and immediately demonstrates she is the insight they need to find the culprit. And everyone readily agree she is their miracle sleuth.
I won’t talk about the investigation, as the author gives early clues to determine the name of the murderer, the fun is more in how the many pieces of the puzzle get assembled to determine the whys behind the crime. And Ottilia manipulates and digs her way in the many house people to get the whole paint of the victim’s circumstances.
I thought she acted more like a man than how women were expected too, still there is a romance brewing with her sleuthing cohort, Lord Francis, the second son of the family.
What astonished me most was all the praises she receives from all the people involved in the murder, men or women, they all recognize her unconventional deductive mind. And while I agree with them, she is a woman, so more untitled to be doubted and challenged rather than acclaimed as such.
Yet, this read gave me the partial portrait I needed to understand the Ottilia from some years later in the upcoming release I am to going back now. And I know it is only an incomplete image as for what I have already read in the seventh book, life has taken its toll on her and made her even more vindicative in her grief.
It is Francis who seems to still be unchanged, her supportive mate, the one who soothes and quiets her fears and doubts, who coddles her harshness.
So 4 stars for this first in a series.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
Lady Fan Mystery Series #1
Elizabeth Bailey
https://www.facebook.com/authorelizab...
Release Date 06/21/2018
Publisher Sapere Books
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
The perfect mix of historical murder and mystery with a hint of romance! For fans of Georgette Heyer, Mary Balogh, Barbara Erskine and Jane Austen. When a murder is committed a lady’s companion finds herself as an amateur sleuth…
1789, London
When Emily Fanshawe, Marchioness of Polbrook, is found strangled in her bedchamber, suspicion immediately falls on those residing in the grand house in Hanover Square.
Emily’s husband – Randal Fanshawe, Lord Polbrook – fled in the night and is chief suspect – much to the dismay of his family.
Ottilia Draycott is brought in as the new lady’s companion to Sybilla, Dowager Marchioness and soon finds herself assisting younger son, Lord Francis Fanshawe in his investigations.
Can Ottilia help clear the family name? Does the killer still reside in the house?
Or could there be more to the mystery than meets the eye…?
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
I thought I could escape having read none of the previous books in this series, but after 3/4 chapters I definitely needed more knowledge about the leading character, or I would come to resent her for her not fear treatment of an other character.
Plus the many side protagonists put me at loss at time about them and their actions. I knew I would not catch up with everything but I supposed the introducing novel to this series would offer some insights about the heroine and the working of her mind.
So here I am.
First the period is new to me, most of the historical mysteries I have read were set during the Victorian era, here it is the under the reign of King George III, two decades before the Regency.
And the heroine, wow, she is quite a force to be reckoned. No Miss nor debutante, she takes matter in hands in an instant, and even subdues those who should have taken exception. She steps and charges in, acting more like a man than a woman of her era. Only older matrons were allowed to be so blunt and could go unscathed by society’s scorn. Yet she just lands in her new place and immediately demonstrates she is the insight they need to find the culprit. And everyone readily agree she is their miracle sleuth.
I won’t talk about the investigation, as the author gives early clues to determine the name of the murderer, the fun is more in how the many pieces of the puzzle get assembled to determine the whys behind the crime. And Ottilia manipulates and digs her way in the many house people to get the whole paint of the victim’s circumstances.
I thought she acted more like a man than how women were expected too, still there is a romance brewing with her sleuthing cohort, Lord Francis, the second son of the family.
What astonished me most was all the praises she receives from all the people involved in the murder, men or women, they all recognize her unconventional deductive mind. And while I agree with them, she is a woman, so more untitled to be doubted and challenged rather than acclaimed as such.
Yet, this read gave me the partial portrait I needed to understand the Ottilia from some years later in the upcoming release I am to going back now. And I know it is only an incomplete image as for what I have already read in the seventh book, life has taken its toll on her and made her even more vindicative in her grief.
It is Francis who seems to still be unchanged, her supportive mate, the one who soothes and quiets her fears and doubts, who coddles her harshness.
So 4 stars for this first in a series.
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February 28, 2019
A page turning historical mystery with a touch of slow burning (REALLY MILD - squeaky 🧼 clean, you can smell the soap) love interest. A mansion in London with a labyrinth of hidden passage ways sets the scene for a murder with very interesting detail. A scandalous lady ends her career and clues include silk stockings and a trail of lovers.
1 of a series - I liked the writing style!
1 of a series - I liked the writing style!
April 18, 2018
I am very pleased that I was attracted to this historical mystery. When I get a new book, I check it out by reading the dustcover flaps if there, reading the back of a book, reading the comments , and often, the first chapter. With Elizabeth Bailey’s The Gilded Shroud, I never stopped reading. I was sucked in from after reading the first couple of pages. All other books went by the wayside as I continued to read this enthralling murder mystery. The author has written a brilliant mystery with some dynamic characters especially Mrs. Draycott who has arrived to be the temporary companion of the Dowager Polbrook. From page one the atmosphere in this large ‘town’ house in London is awfully wrong, and the reader is very aware of it! What it it? Well, that is what keeps one reading - to discover what it is exactly! Well done! Highly recommend! Thoroughly enjoyed!
did-not-finish
November 27, 2022Mary Sue gets a job as a dowager companion. A family member is killed immediately after and Mary Sue suddenly becomes Sherlock Holmes, leading the investigation and telling aristocrat family members what to do. They all capitulate, as Lords and Ladies always follow instructions given by servants.
To the DNF shelf it goes after 100 pages.
To the DNF shelf it goes after 100 pages.
February 9, 2020
This book tries to be both a Regency Romance and a murder mystery and for me managed to fall in-between as a mediocre example of both genres. Later books in the series seem to get better reviews and I liked the premise of fusing the two genres, so I may give it another go.
July 17, 2019
THE GUILDED SHROUD by Elizabeth Bailey is the first volume in the Lady Fan Mystery series, which mixes historical romance with a murder mystery to compelling effect. The protagonist in this sharp Regency romp is a brave and intelligent new companion to the Dowager. When a shocking murder occurs at Polbrook mansion, she turns her fine intellect and innate curiosity to the task of uncovering the murderer. Throw in romance and a desperate killer, plus strong characters and rich period details, and you have a winner! 5/5
Thanks to Sapere Books and NetGalley for the review copy. Opinions are fully mine.
#TheGildedShroud #NetGalley
Thanks to Sapere Books and NetGalley for the review copy. Opinions are fully mine.
#TheGildedShroud #NetGalley
October 11, 2011
DNF
Story sounded so promising- widowed companion helps handsome lord solve mystery and they fall in love.
Very poorly executed.
Ottilia is was annoying- a murder has been committed and she smiles and orders coffee?
Dialogue is trite.
No chemistry with the hero, who has the crazy nick name of "Fan- fan"
Mystery component was uninteresting as well.
Story sounded so promising- widowed companion helps handsome lord solve mystery and they fall in love.
Very poorly executed.
Ottilia is was annoying- a murder has been committed and she smiles and orders coffee?
Dialogue is trite.
No chemistry with the hero, who has the crazy nick name of "Fan- fan"
Mystery component was uninteresting as well.
September 28, 2020
Hired as a temporary companion to the dowager marchioness, Ottilia is quickly subject to a brutal murder. Being the sister of a doctor and extremely meddling, she takes it upon herself to assist the family in solving the crime and absolving the patriarch of guilt.
I wanted to like this book a lot, it's exactly my kind of book. I just couldn't get behind it. The mystery was kind of dull, no big surprises or interesting clues. The characters spent the entirety of the book praising Ottilia. No one really got their own story line because they were too obsessed with her. Because of that they all felt weak, especially the romance. Francis and Ottilia talked like twice, no dramatic exposition in their back stories, they literally fell in love only on the basis of solving a murder together.
I didn't like the historical roles either because there was the opportunity for a conflict and it was wasted. Francis is the second son of a marquis, he's way up there in terms of social standing. Ottilia is the sister of a doctor? I don't think he was a knighted doctor, maybe he was a gentleman who knows like I said absolutely no backstory. It was great if all I wanted to hear about was how good at solving mysteries, talking to people, and just being amazing Ottilia was. Otherwise, it was kind of boring.
I didn't hate it all together. To an extent, I love it when the protagonist is special and great at what they do. But they also have to be fallible or else it just loses value for me. I might continue in the series just to see if things get more interesting, but I hope that all the characters get over Ottilia.
This review and all my others can be found at: https://aworldshapedbybooks.blogspot....
May 9, 2021
Like Cluedo murder-mystery, body in the bedroom, missing jewels and her disenchanted husband is in the frame. The h is a companion to the H's mother and she brings them together as amateur sleuths. A good mystery, with obvious clues about the killer rather too early. I liked the h but found her self satisfied, and she laughed and smiled at inappropriate times. The family were frightened and grieving, and she was smug and patronising. Still a good read.
June 15, 2023
This was better than I expected. Lord Fan and Tilly investigate the murder of his sister in law while his missing brother is the number one suspect. Was it a lover, a servant, an intruder? Tilly’s curious mind is eager to take up the case as she joins forces and wits with Lord Fan to solve this historical murder.
January 24, 2019
Series: A Lady Fan Mystery #1
Publication Date: September 6th, 2011 by Berkley Trade (first published January 10th, 1992)
Number of Pages: 368
2.5 Stars rounded up to 3
I loved the synopsis of this book when I read it and immediately purchased it. I loved the mystery itself, but the rest seemed more like a script for an over-the-top stage play with cardboard characters than it did anything representing real life. The relationships and conversations between servants and upper classes were so far off base that it was more fantasy than reality. Then – the view of the Bow Street Runners – absolutely ridiculous. In that period Bow Street couldn’t touch the peerage in any way, shape or form – they couldn’t even enter through the front door of the home, they had to go to the servants entrance and if the peerage didn’t want to allow them in or to talk to them, they didn’t have to. Members of the peerage would be tried before the House of Lords and they almost never, ever convicted each other of anything. So, a peer could, literally, get away with murder – especially against someone who ‘belonged’ to him – such as a wife.
According to Goodreads, this book was first published in 1992, so I’m hoping that it was a ‘learner’ novel for this author and the subsequent books (written over twenty years later) will be much better.
The book opens with the discovery of the murdered body of Lady Emily Fanshawe, Marchioness of Polbrook. Her husband is nowhere to be found and the only family member in residence is his brother Francis. Therefore, it is up to Francis to take charge and one of the most onerous things he has to do is to tell his mother that Emily has been murdered and Randal is missing.
When Francis arrives at his mother’s townhouse to tell her the news, he finds her having breakfast with her new (temporary) companion (Mrs. Ottilia Draycott) that she has only met late the night before. Ottilia offers to withdraw, but Francis invites her to stay since it will soon be all over town anyway. As Francis is telling his mother this distressing news, Ottilia is constantly interrupting with questions that are clearly none of her business. Instead of rebuking her, both the Dowager Marchioness and Francis let her continue, tell her how clever she is, and then she goes with them to the crime scene and she actually examines the scene and the body, etc. in the most intimate way.
Francis immediately gives Ottilia carte blanche to conduct the investigation because she is so smart, intuitive, and clever and he and his mother are just so dumb. Then she does really clever things like determining that someone could have entered the house through one of the doors – duh! She is so clever because – wait for it – she raised her brother’s two sons. Given that criteria, I should be a genius!
Ottilia rocks along with her investigation and ropes Francis into helping with parts of it until the mystery is solved and the murderer is revealed. In the meantime, everyone is constantly telling Ottilia how very clever she is and allowing her to ask the most intimate questions. The servants have the most casual of interchanges and relationships with the Dowager, Francis and everybody else. It is all just so very period inappropriate.
Then, there is the relationship that develops with Francis and Ottilia. I just didn’t see or feel it. They were like two cardboard characters and I couldn’t see where an attraction would be. There just didn’t seem to be any real passion.
There is also Ottilia’s propensity for giggling and making inappropriate jokes and comments during very serious, emotional, trying times. There were times when I was thinking that someone ought to give her a slap to show her that things were serious.
It is my intention to read another book in this series because the later ones have been released in the last few years and the author has had some time to grow in her craft. I’d like to see a more likable and relatable Ottilia. If Ottilia does have that growth, I’ll look forward to more books in the series.
Please check out my reviews at:
Blog: https://flippinpages.blog/
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Twitter: https://twitter.com/BarbBookReview
Publication Date: September 6th, 2011 by Berkley Trade (first published January 10th, 1992)
Number of Pages: 368
2.5 Stars rounded up to 3
I loved the synopsis of this book when I read it and immediately purchased it. I loved the mystery itself, but the rest seemed more like a script for an over-the-top stage play with cardboard characters than it did anything representing real life. The relationships and conversations between servants and upper classes were so far off base that it was more fantasy than reality. Then – the view of the Bow Street Runners – absolutely ridiculous. In that period Bow Street couldn’t touch the peerage in any way, shape or form – they couldn’t even enter through the front door of the home, they had to go to the servants entrance and if the peerage didn’t want to allow them in or to talk to them, they didn’t have to. Members of the peerage would be tried before the House of Lords and they almost never, ever convicted each other of anything. So, a peer could, literally, get away with murder – especially against someone who ‘belonged’ to him – such as a wife.
According to Goodreads, this book was first published in 1992, so I’m hoping that it was a ‘learner’ novel for this author and the subsequent books (written over twenty years later) will be much better.
The book opens with the discovery of the murdered body of Lady Emily Fanshawe, Marchioness of Polbrook. Her husband is nowhere to be found and the only family member in residence is his brother Francis. Therefore, it is up to Francis to take charge and one of the most onerous things he has to do is to tell his mother that Emily has been murdered and Randal is missing.
When Francis arrives at his mother’s townhouse to tell her the news, he finds her having breakfast with her new (temporary) companion (Mrs. Ottilia Draycott) that she has only met late the night before. Ottilia offers to withdraw, but Francis invites her to stay since it will soon be all over town anyway. As Francis is telling his mother this distressing news, Ottilia is constantly interrupting with questions that are clearly none of her business. Instead of rebuking her, both the Dowager Marchioness and Francis let her continue, tell her how clever she is, and then she goes with them to the crime scene and she actually examines the scene and the body, etc. in the most intimate way.
Francis immediately gives Ottilia carte blanche to conduct the investigation because she is so smart, intuitive, and clever and he and his mother are just so dumb. Then she does really clever things like determining that someone could have entered the house through one of the doors – duh! She is so clever because – wait for it – she raised her brother’s two sons. Given that criteria, I should be a genius!
Ottilia rocks along with her investigation and ropes Francis into helping with parts of it until the mystery is solved and the murderer is revealed. In the meantime, everyone is constantly telling Ottilia how very clever she is and allowing her to ask the most intimate questions. The servants have the most casual of interchanges and relationships with the Dowager, Francis and everybody else. It is all just so very period inappropriate.
Then, there is the relationship that develops with Francis and Ottilia. I just didn’t see or feel it. They were like two cardboard characters and I couldn’t see where an attraction would be. There just didn’t seem to be any real passion.
There is also Ottilia’s propensity for giggling and making inappropriate jokes and comments during very serious, emotional, trying times. There were times when I was thinking that someone ought to give her a slap to show her that things were serious.
It is my intention to read another book in this series because the later ones have been released in the last few years and the author has had some time to grow in her craft. I’d like to see a more likable and relatable Ottilia. If Ottilia does have that growth, I’ll look forward to more books in the series.
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
October 3, 2021
This is a difficult one for me to rate. I like an amateur sleuth murder mystery, and I like a Regency (or in this case, Georgian) story, so it ought to have been right up my alley, but somehow the combination didn’t quite work for me. Still, the mystery is neatly worked out, there’s a nice array of eccentric characters and red herrings, and the romance builds slowly to a satisfactory conclusion, so it will suit a lot of readers.
Here’s the premise: Emily, the Marchioness of Polbrook, is found strangled in her bed after husband Randal, the Marquis, fled the house in the middle of the night. They were far from a happily married couple, so things look bad for him. It falls to younger brother, Lord Francis Fanshawe, to prove his brother’s innocence. Luckily for Francis, his mother’s companion has just taken on a new companion, Mrs Ottilia Draycott, who is not only an outsider, able to observe events dispassionately, but also has an unusual interest in mysteries, not to mention a surprisingly modern awareness of psychology and investigative methods. And so the sleuthing begins.
Now, frankly, it takes a deal of suspension of disbelief to accept that the whole household would defer to this stranger, and put her in charge of the investigation. This is, after all, the eighteenth century, when women just weren’t believed to have brains at all, or the capability for rational thought, and if they weren’t squeamish about gruesome strangulations, would be expected to pretend to be. They were thought to be too delicate in mind and body for the rigours of the unpleasantnesses of life, and would have been bundled out of the way at the first sign of blood. No way would a female have been buzzing about the house interviewing suspects and creeping about at night. There are books which pull this off without compromising the historical elements (such as Anna Dean), but this isn’t one of them.
Having said all that, as a murder mystery it actually works very well. There are plenty of suspects and red herrings, the mystery is slowly unravelled and the murderer is both logical and not too obvious. There is a romance of sorts, but it’s not the main focus of the story, and since this is the first of a series featuring the intrepid Ottilia, it’s to be supposed that the others will be straightforward murder mysteries.
This wasn’t a total success for me, since I like a lot more romance and a bit less gruesomeness in my reading, but it’s well written and cleverly plotted, and I read it avidly to find out whodunnit, so I’ve rated it on that basis. As a murder mystery, I’d give it five stars, but as a Regency (ok, Georgian!) it’s closer to three for me, so I’ll take the average. Four stars. Recommended for cosy fans who like a bit of history with their murder.
Here’s the premise: Emily, the Marchioness of Polbrook, is found strangled in her bed after husband Randal, the Marquis, fled the house in the middle of the night. They were far from a happily married couple, so things look bad for him. It falls to younger brother, Lord Francis Fanshawe, to prove his brother’s innocence. Luckily for Francis, his mother’s companion has just taken on a new companion, Mrs Ottilia Draycott, who is not only an outsider, able to observe events dispassionately, but also has an unusual interest in mysteries, not to mention a surprisingly modern awareness of psychology and investigative methods. And so the sleuthing begins.
Now, frankly, it takes a deal of suspension of disbelief to accept that the whole household would defer to this stranger, and put her in charge of the investigation. This is, after all, the eighteenth century, when women just weren’t believed to have brains at all, or the capability for rational thought, and if they weren’t squeamish about gruesome strangulations, would be expected to pretend to be. They were thought to be too delicate in mind and body for the rigours of the unpleasantnesses of life, and would have been bundled out of the way at the first sign of blood. No way would a female have been buzzing about the house interviewing suspects and creeping about at night. There are books which pull this off without compromising the historical elements (such as Anna Dean), but this isn’t one of them.
Having said all that, as a murder mystery it actually works very well. There are plenty of suspects and red herrings, the mystery is slowly unravelled and the murderer is both logical and not too obvious. There is a romance of sorts, but it’s not the main focus of the story, and since this is the first of a series featuring the intrepid Ottilia, it’s to be supposed that the others will be straightforward murder mysteries.
This wasn’t a total success for me, since I like a lot more romance and a bit less gruesomeness in my reading, but it’s well written and cleverly plotted, and I read it avidly to find out whodunnit, so I’ve rated it on that basis. As a murder mystery, I’d give it five stars, but as a Regency (ok, Georgian!) it’s closer to three for me, so I’ll take the average. Four stars. Recommended for cosy fans who like a bit of history with their murder.
January 17, 2012
Okay, so it takes a lot for me to pick up a book and label it amazing after having read it, but this book was special. In general plot it was nothing out of the ordinary. It was remarkably well put together and I enjoyed all of the characters that Elizabeth Bailey created, but I can't say I was entirely surprised at the ending because I saw it coming from a long way off. However, there is something about this book that just captivated me. I have literally just finished it and here I am writing this review. What is more I only picked it up on an idle whim when I was at work today. It was sitting on a book cart and after reading the back I thought that I would check it out seeing as I kinda wanted a good mystery with a hint of romance. Unusually for me, I have been completely unable to put it down! I loved how Elizabeth Baily was able to balance a myriad of characters without making it too overwhelming or too difficult to keep track of who everyone was. The romantic element was played off very well and wasn't too sappy, but definitely made my heart flutter and made me give the happy sigh that always comes at the end of a good love story. And although I say that the plot was not unusual, I would by no means want to imply that it was a bad or badly thought out plot. It was a well put together plot that managed to keep my attention very well. So, overall a very good book, a pleasant surprise for me. I would recommend it to people who enjoy the Victoria Thompson Gaslight Mysteries series, though it works just as well if you're looking for something on the lighter side of the mystery genre.
May 7, 2019
A terrific mystery, the first of the Lady Fan series, which really kept me on my toes! I had my suspicions as to "whodunnit," and I was right, but the certainty didn't come until the reveal at the end. The future Lady Fan is an amazing character: curious, highly intelligent and logical, with a propensity to find humor at the oddest times and in the weirdest places.
The widowed Mrs. Ottavia Draycott starts as a "substitute" companion to the Dowager Marchioness of Polbrook, but when the Marchioness is found strangled in her bed, the Marquis, son to the dowager, who had left for France in the night, was suspected by all. Ottavia supports the family through the tragedy, revealing her keen insight into human nature and her sharp sense of humor.
The Marquis' younger brother, Lord Francis Fanshawe, becomes Ottavia's partner-in-crime-solving as they seek to clear the absent Marquis. A terrific mystery, steeped in the vagaries of human nature and the keen mind and compassionate heart of a new heroine who is to be admired by mystery-loving readers.
The widowed Mrs. Ottavia Draycott starts as a "substitute" companion to the Dowager Marchioness of Polbrook, but when the Marchioness is found strangled in her bed, the Marquis, son to the dowager, who had left for France in the night, was suspected by all. Ottavia supports the family through the tragedy, revealing her keen insight into human nature and her sharp sense of humor.
The Marquis' younger brother, Lord Francis Fanshawe, becomes Ottavia's partner-in-crime-solving as they seek to clear the absent Marquis. A terrific mystery, steeped in the vagaries of human nature and the keen mind and compassionate heart of a new heroine who is to be admired by mystery-loving readers.
February 14, 2016
Throughout the reading of this book I kept thinking that it was leaning toward being a romance historical mystery. And then, I read the "about the author" blurb and discovered that, yes, Elizabeth Bailey started out writing romance novels. She hasn't given up that genre yet. The culprit of this novel glared out from very near the beginning of the book, it was just to predictable. The dialogue seemed stilted, like the author was working very hard to make the characters sound like they stepped out of that era however they don't sound as genuine as characters written by authors of the era. Another gripe was the quickness with which the Fanshawe family accepted Ottilia Draycott's, the recently hired lady's companion, help solving a very scandalous and private murder. I would rate it a 2.5 if that were possible.
February 27, 2019
1.5 stars.
I appreciated a clean story, with a sweet hint of romance. The language was authentic, but the ease with which the heroine was accepted into upper echelons of English society was not. Others have already noted this aberration so I won't beat the horse to death, but that's the main part of why I couldn't really connect with this story. Added to that, given that none of the characters was all that well developed, the genius of the heroine was quite odd. And were all the other characters simply silly to the max? How come they couldn't draw any conclusions on their own? It was all a bit strange and I doubt I will be continuing on with this series.
Safety
I appreciated a clean story, with a sweet hint of romance. The language was authentic, but the ease with which the heroine was accepted into upper echelons of English society was not. Others have already noted this aberration so I won't beat the horse to death, but that's the main part of why I couldn't really connect with this story. Added to that, given that none of the characters was all that well developed, the genius of the heroine was quite odd. And were all the other characters simply silly to the max? How come they couldn't draw any conclusions on their own? It was all a bit strange and I doubt I will be continuing on with this series.
Safety
October 26, 2018
First book for me by this author. It was available through my Kindle Unlimited subscription. I was rather desperate to find a book I would enjoy reading and got lucky with this first of a series.
It may have helped to be a dedicated Georgette Heyer fan. I had no problem adjusting to the lively and colorful Regency-era members of the ton who also have some murders to solve. Plus a budding romance between two of the most admirable characters with a happy ending! Looking forward to the second book with a big old smile on my face.
Reality Check: Would a "gently born" Regency female use the word coitus in mixed company? Of course not, but it was certainly entertaining.
It may have helped to be a dedicated Georgette Heyer fan. I had no problem adjusting to the lively and colorful Regency-era members of the ton who also have some murders to solve. Plus a budding romance between two of the most admirable characters with a happy ending! Looking forward to the second book with a big old smile on my face.
Reality Check: Would a "gently born" Regency female use the word coitus in mixed company? Of course not, but it was certainly entertaining.
October 7, 2020
This murder mystery story was very entertaining and I thought the writing was fantastic. The story flowed and kept me reading until late into the night. The mystery of the murdered daughter in law slowly unfolded and kept me guessing as to who the perpetrator was. The write up about this book compared it to Georgette Heyer’s writing, who is one of my favorite authors, and I have to say that the author, Elizabeth Bailey really knows how to write endearing characters. I loved this book! It was fun and light and a joy to read and I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
December 1, 2021
As you can tell, I started this book 1 day & finished it the next, so it was a fast and enjoyable read. Tillie, the soon-to-be eponymous “Lady Fan” meets her future husband in the course of this book, as well as much of his family, and while acting as a companion to his mother, she investigates the murder of his sister-in-law. Set in the Regency England beloved of Georgette Heyer & Jane Austen readers, I was thoroughly in my zone. I look forward with enthusiasm to her next outing, and thoroughly recommend this historical mystery.
May 19, 2018
Mrs Ottilia Draycott has just arrived as a temporary companion to the Dowager Lady Polbrook when news reaches them that the Lady Emily is dead. Having a lively inquisitive mind Ottilia starts to investigate as only an outsider can do.
I enjoyed this historical murder mystery with its likeable characters.
I enjoyed this historical murder mystery with its likeable characters.
September 2, 2016
Finally, a Victorian novel with a clever, mischievous leading female character, who is appreciated by the people around her for those qualities. A strong female lead in a totally believable situation. Loving it!
February 2, 2024
I had to give up on this. It was unrealistic in that someone who had just been allowed into a family circle as an employee is suddenly allowed to be at the center of everything. Everyone takes to this lady for no reason obvious to the reader, and it's more romance than mystery. I'm disappointed to give up on something, but I can find other mysteries more to my taste than this.
June 14, 2018
The Gilded Shroud is the first book in A Lady Fan Mystery series by Elizabeth Bailey.
Ottilia Draycott has only just taken on the temporary position as companion to the Dowager Marchioness of Polbrook when a murder occurs.
Emily Fanshawe, Marchioness of Polbrook is found strangled in her bed, and her husband Randal Fanshawe, Lord Polbrook apparently flees the house before the body is discovered. All finger point to him murdering his wife.
Ottilia is a straight thinking, calm woman and hearing about the death, and fathoming that it can't have been Randal who committed the murder, ingratiates herself into the family's confidences. They encourage her and give free rein to look into the circumstances of the murder and believe her capable of finding the real criminal.
One person who is more than grateful for Ottilia's help is Lord Francis Fanshawe, Randal's younger brother. He is thankful that Ottilia's calm seems to rub off on everybody and he is even brought to laughter sometimes at the ways she goes about her investigations. She brings a lightness to the situation that he desperately needs. Francis and Ottilia are attracted to each other but their feelings very much take a back seat to all that is going on with the murder investigation.
Will Randal be exonerated of his wife's murder, if not him, then who murdered her, and why? Ottilia will be the catalyst to the criminal's downfall and I for one was surprised not by who was the murderer, but just what happened on that fateful night.
This book was very much a murder mystery with just a tad of romance. Personally, I would have liked more romance, but I can understand why there couldn't be any more. A murder investigation is hardly the time or place to be having passionate romance occurring. When the romance did take off for Francis and Ottilia it was sweet and moving.
I loved how the author used words I had never even heard of from the era, I had to look many of them up and was thoroughly pleased to be learning their meanings. I love a book that can be entertaining whilst also teaching me something new.
I haven't read any of this author's books before, but if nothing else I will hopefully have the chance to read the next books in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book.
Ottilia Draycott has only just taken on the temporary position as companion to the Dowager Marchioness of Polbrook when a murder occurs.
Emily Fanshawe, Marchioness of Polbrook is found strangled in her bed, and her husband Randal Fanshawe, Lord Polbrook apparently flees the house before the body is discovered. All finger point to him murdering his wife.
Ottilia is a straight thinking, calm woman and hearing about the death, and fathoming that it can't have been Randal who committed the murder, ingratiates herself into the family's confidences. They encourage her and give free rein to look into the circumstances of the murder and believe her capable of finding the real criminal.
One person who is more than grateful for Ottilia's help is Lord Francis Fanshawe, Randal's younger brother. He is thankful that Ottilia's calm seems to rub off on everybody and he is even brought to laughter sometimes at the ways she goes about her investigations. She brings a lightness to the situation that he desperately needs. Francis and Ottilia are attracted to each other but their feelings very much take a back seat to all that is going on with the murder investigation.
Will Randal be exonerated of his wife's murder, if not him, then who murdered her, and why? Ottilia will be the catalyst to the criminal's downfall and I for one was surprised not by who was the murderer, but just what happened on that fateful night.
This book was very much a murder mystery with just a tad of romance. Personally, I would have liked more romance, but I can understand why there couldn't be any more. A murder investigation is hardly the time or place to be having passionate romance occurring. When the romance did take off for Francis and Ottilia it was sweet and moving.
I loved how the author used words I had never even heard of from the era, I had to look many of them up and was thoroughly pleased to be learning their meanings. I love a book that can be entertaining whilst also teaching me something new.
I haven't read any of this author's books before, but if nothing else I will hopefully have the chance to read the next books in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book.
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