What do you think?
Rate this book
Mrs. Jeffries #36
Mrs. Jeffries and the Three Wise Women
Mrs. Jeffries and Inspector Witherspoon solve a holiday homicide in this mystery in the New York Times bestselling Victorian series.
Christopher Gilhaney isn't a popular man, and he proves why once again when he insults every guest at Abigail Chase's Guy Fawkes Night dinner party. When Gilhaney is shot dead under the cover of the night's fireworks, his murder is deemed a robbery gone wrong. But when the case hasn't been solved six weeks later, Inspector Witherspoon is called upon to find the killer—and quickly!
With Christmas almost here, Inspector Witherspoon and everyone in his household is upset at the possibility of having to cancel their holiday plans—all to solve a case that seems impossible. Only Luty Belle, Ruth, and Mrs. Goodge refuse to give up and let the crime become a cold case. In fact, the American heiress, the charming next-door neighbor, and the formidable cook use all of their persuasive powers to get the others on board, because these three wise women know justice doesn't take time off for Christmas.
Christopher Gilhaney isn't a popular man, and he proves why once again when he insults every guest at Abigail Chase's Guy Fawkes Night dinner party. When Gilhaney is shot dead under the cover of the night's fireworks, his murder is deemed a robbery gone wrong. But when the case hasn't been solved six weeks later, Inspector Witherspoon is called upon to find the killer—and quickly!
With Christmas almost here, Inspector Witherspoon and everyone in his household is upset at the possibility of having to cancel their holiday plans—all to solve a case that seems impossible. Only Luty Belle, Ruth, and Mrs. Goodge refuse to give up and let the crime become a cold case. In fact, the American heiress, the charming next-door neighbor, and the formidable cook use all of their persuasive powers to get the others on board, because these three wise women know justice doesn't take time off for Christmas.
282 pages, Paperback
First published October 17, 2017
161 people are currently reading
571 people want to read
About the author
Emily Brightwell
68 books536 followersCheryl Lanham was born on 11 October 1948 in the Appalachian mountains of West Virginia, USA. Her family moved to Southern California in 1959 and she grew up in Pasadena. After graduating from California State University, she decided to work her way around the world and took off for England. She didn’t get much further because she met Richard James Arguile, the Englishman who became her husband, got married on May 1976, and had two children, Matthew and Amanda. While working in international shipping, she decided to pursue her dream and become a writer – which, of course, is the best job ever. She has written romance novels as Sarah Temple, and Young Adult novels as Cheryl Lanham. As Emily Brightwell, she is the author of the “Mrs. Jeffries” mysteries.
Cheryl Lanham Arguile returned to California, where she lives with her husband and a cranky old cat named Kiwi.
Cheryl Lanham Arguile returned to California, where she lives with her husband and a cranky old cat named Kiwi.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 151 reviews
October 18, 2017
My first journey into the world of Mrs. Jeffries was a delightful romp within a wonderful mystery.
I was a bit concerned coming into such a long running series on book installment thirty-six. There was no need for worry. I quickly found myself immersed in a fascinating story, with delightful characters, and a riveting mystery.
It’s clear that author Emily Brightwell loves these characters of hers. Their personalities jumped off the pages making me feel a part of the story. Each one adds a perfect something to the tale, be it the voice of reason, comedic relief, or the guiding force of them all, who of course is Mrs. Jeffries.
The murder plot in, MRS. JEFFRIES AND THE THREE WISE WOMEN, was extremely well done, which didn’t surprise me considering all of the amazing things I’ve heard about author Brightwell. Guessing whodunit was made all the harder due to the fact that the victim was so disliked.
If you’re a fan of the Victorian era, and of course, mysteries, the Victorian Mystery series is one for you. I know I’ll be reading more of Mrs. Jeffries.
I was a bit concerned coming into such a long running series on book installment thirty-six. There was no need for worry. I quickly found myself immersed in a fascinating story, with delightful characters, and a riveting mystery.
It’s clear that author Emily Brightwell loves these characters of hers. Their personalities jumped off the pages making me feel a part of the story. Each one adds a perfect something to the tale, be it the voice of reason, comedic relief, or the guiding force of them all, who of course is Mrs. Jeffries.
The murder plot in, MRS. JEFFRIES AND THE THREE WISE WOMEN, was extremely well done, which didn’t surprise me considering all of the amazing things I’ve heard about author Brightwell. Guessing whodunit was made all the harder due to the fact that the victim was so disliked.
If you’re a fan of the Victorian era, and of course, mysteries, the Victorian Mystery series is one for you. I know I’ll be reading more of Mrs. Jeffries.
October 26, 2017
Mrs. Jeffries and The Three Wise women was unlike any cozy I have read before. This British, Victorian times mystery has all the makings of an epic mini series. This is the first for me in the series and I found it delightful and easy to read. Set at Christmas time the feeling of the book captures the feeling of the season and the anxiety we all feel to get things done before the big day. An incredible cast of characters, and every day sleuths in this one. Very much a great read.
December 22, 2017
A visit with Mrs. Jefferies and Witherspoon household is always a pleasant and relaxing one. Christmas is closed and members of Inspector Witherspoon household all have special plans for the time. Their plans are disrupted when the Inspector received a murder case. The case has occurred earlier and Inspector Nivens had bungled it. Afraid that they will be able to about their vacations, the members are not really interested in helping the Inspector Witherspoon find the killer. The case has a number of turns before the household residents realize that justice is more important than their holiday plans.
I high!y recommend this book and series.
Disclosure: I received a free copy from Berkeley Publishing through NetGalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for this opportunity to read and review this book. The opinions expressed are my own.
I high!y recommend this book and series.
Disclosure: I received a free copy from Berkeley Publishing through NetGalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for this opportunity to read and review this book. The opinions expressed are my own.
March 18, 2018
I know that I came across a description of this series a while back, and I found it – the idea of a detective's housekeeper doing the lion's share of the work to help him achieve arrests – off-putting. Perhaps because of the covers I've seen for the series I thought it was all played for laughs; the artwork on most of the books makes Inspector Witherspoon look completely oblivious, with Mrs. Jeffries peering in from the side. I was never interested. So it's odd that I requested this book from Netgalley.
But I did, and in the end it was much better than I expected it to be. It wasn't great – I can't imagine reading 35 more along the same lines, and I was startled to read a description of a couple of earlier books in the series that sounded a whole lot like this one; there was one in which it was important that a case be solved by Christmas, and at least one other in which a case was given to inferior Inspector Nivens and, of course, botched.
I did like the characters – Inspector Witherspoon is not a nincompoop, thank goodness, and that makes all the difference. And the author did a nice job at keeping a fairly large cast of characters distinct from each other and pretty consistently interesting … though I really wish the one American character wasn't written in the dreadful manner of Arthur Conan Doyle or Agatha Christie writing an American. Goldarnit. There are a few things the Golden Agers did not do perfectly, and in which they should not be emulated.
There was a bit too much repetition of the basic ideas of "we'll never solve this old mystery" and "I goofed off today and I'm ashamed but I'll probably do it again tomorrow because we'll never solve this old mystery", and much too much whining about having their holiday plans disrupted. In that they reminded me of my coworkers, who spend half the day talking about the news and the weather and their love lives and tv and a hundred other inane things, and then complain that they don't have time to do their work. Shut up and buckle down, and maybe you'll manage.
All in all, I'm not sorry I read it – but I'm in no rush to go read the rest of the (astonishingly long) series.
The usual disclaimer: I received this book via Netgalley for review.
But I did, and in the end it was much better than I expected it to be. It wasn't great – I can't imagine reading 35 more along the same lines, and I was startled to read a description of a couple of earlier books in the series that sounded a whole lot like this one; there was one in which it was important that a case be solved by Christmas, and at least one other in which a case was given to inferior Inspector Nivens and, of course, botched.
I did like the characters – Inspector Witherspoon is not a nincompoop, thank goodness, and that makes all the difference. And the author did a nice job at keeping a fairly large cast of characters distinct from each other and pretty consistently interesting … though I really wish the one American character wasn't written in the dreadful manner of Arthur Conan Doyle or Agatha Christie writing an American. Goldarnit. There are a few things the Golden Agers did not do perfectly, and in which they should not be emulated.
There was a bit too much repetition of the basic ideas of "we'll never solve this old mystery" and "I goofed off today and I'm ashamed but I'll probably do it again tomorrow because we'll never solve this old mystery", and much too much whining about having their holiday plans disrupted. In that they reminded me of my coworkers, who spend half the day talking about the news and the weather and their love lives and tv and a hundred other inane things, and then complain that they don't have time to do their work. Shut up and buckle down, and maybe you'll manage.
All in all, I'm not sorry I read it – but I'm in no rush to go read the rest of the (astonishingly long) series.
The usual disclaimer: I received this book via Netgalley for review.
December 22, 2017
Abigail Chase is furious with her husband's business associate Christopher Gilhaney for ruining her Guy Fawkes Night dinner party. He managed to insult every single one of her guests, all of whom left very early. As Gilhaney walks home through the mews he hears the noise of the fireworks and worries about drunken revelers. Little does he know he has a bigger problem! A mysterious masked person manages to shoot the cautious and street-wise Gilhaney through the heart! Inspector Nivens manages to convince Chief Inspector Barrows that the killing was a simple robbery gone wrong and he'll be able to solve the mystery in no time. Unfortunately for Nivens, it's not so simple and with the Home Office pressuring the police to solve the murder, Nivens is taken off the case. Witherspoon is now on the case. Witherspoon and the servants are upset their Christmas plans are about to be ruined. Mrs. Goodge, Luty Belle and Lady Canonberry notice no one else's hearts seem to be in the case. They can't let Inspector Witherspoon down. He doesn't deserve a black mark on his record despite the incompetence of Inspector Nivens. Can they convince everyone else to put aside their own selfish desires and help their dear Inspector crack the case?
I am so amazed at the author's ability to keep this series fresh. This mystery was so complicated and had so many suspects, I never figured out who the actual killer was. I was on the right track as to why but who could have been anyone. It did seem obvious in hindsight but it took Mrs. Jeffries quite a long time to get there! My big complaint with this novel is the length. There's a little too much of nothing to report and a bit too much repetition.
As always, the characters are a delight. I love Mrs. Goodge and her network of sources. They're very colorful. Luty Belle the stereotype annoys me but she has a heart of gold and I can't help but enjoy her. Lady Canonberry is so admirable. I liked what she said about fighting for what she believes in and I love how her relationship with Inspector Witherspoon is moving forward. They're very sweet together. The rest of the characters are annoying-on purpose. They behave selfishly, which is understandable, but as they are reminded-justice doesn't take a holiday. They do owe Witherspoon for their positions and for the kindness he gives them! HE doesn't want to work over Christmas any more than they do. I am impressed with the Inspector. He has come a long way in this series. He's more shrewd and less naive than he was when he started though still oblivious to the help he's given! I think even without the help, he could have figured it out eventually.
New characters are numerous. Let's start with the victim-Christopher Gilhaney. He seems like a very unpleasant, unlikable sort of man in the beginning. Then the reports about him get conflicting. He sounds like a complicated person. I admire him for his good qualities and how he was able to overcome his childhood circumstances. The Chases seem like a typical upper class married couple. They tolerate each other -he with good humor for the most part. She seems a bit irritating and bullying though. Mr. and Mrs. Bruce, on the other hand, barely tolerate each other. He married her for her money and their relationship shows just how that works out! I found them a bit over-the-top and unrealistic though, like characters in a movie. Miss Holter came as a bit of a surprise. She seems to be a soul sister of Miss Havisham! Mr. Webster was also a surprise. I suspected something different about him. Mr. Newton seems a bit too kind and conscientious to be realistic for the time. I'm not sure what to make of him, if he is a villain or not. The others are rather forgettable and I kept getting confused as to who was who.
If you like this series, you will enjoy this book a lot. If you're just beginning the series, this book works fine as a stand alone, though I would backtrack several books and not start here. Overall, a fun holiday read.
I am so amazed at the author's ability to keep this series fresh. This mystery was so complicated and had so many suspects, I never figured out who the actual killer was. I was on the right track as to why but who could have been anyone. It did seem obvious in hindsight but it took Mrs. Jeffries quite a long time to get there! My big complaint with this novel is the length. There's a little too much of nothing to report and a bit too much repetition.
As always, the characters are a delight. I love Mrs. Goodge and her network of sources. They're very colorful. Luty Belle the stereotype annoys me but she has a heart of gold and I can't help but enjoy her. Lady Canonberry is so admirable. I liked what she said about fighting for what she believes in and I love how her relationship with Inspector Witherspoon is moving forward. They're very sweet together. The rest of the characters are annoying-on purpose. They behave selfishly, which is understandable, but as they are reminded-justice doesn't take a holiday. They do owe Witherspoon for their positions and for the kindness he gives them! HE doesn't want to work over Christmas any more than they do. I am impressed with the Inspector. He has come a long way in this series. He's more shrewd and less naive than he was when he started though still oblivious to the help he's given! I think even without the help, he could have figured it out eventually.
New characters are numerous. Let's start with the victim-Christopher Gilhaney. He seems like a very unpleasant, unlikable sort of man in the beginning. Then the reports about him get conflicting. He sounds like a complicated person. I admire him for his good qualities and how he was able to overcome his childhood circumstances. The Chases seem like a typical upper class married couple. They tolerate each other -he with good humor for the most part. She seems a bit irritating and bullying though. Mr. and Mrs. Bruce, on the other hand, barely tolerate each other. He married her for her money and their relationship shows just how that works out! I found them a bit over-the-top and unrealistic though, like characters in a movie. Miss Holter came as a bit of a surprise. She seems to be a soul sister of Miss Havisham! Mr. Webster was also a surprise. I suspected something different about him. Mr. Newton seems a bit too kind and conscientious to be realistic for the time. I'm not sure what to make of him, if he is a villain or not. The others are rather forgettable and I kept getting confused as to who was who.
If you like this series, you will enjoy this book a lot. If you're just beginning the series, this book works fine as a stand alone, though I would backtrack several books and not start here. Overall, a fun holiday read.
December 27, 2017
I really enjoyed this book and had little trouble jumping into the series without having read all the previous books. Set during Victoria Era England, Inspector Witherspoon has a perfect record for solving murder cases. It is a poorly kept secret that his household and friends are the secret to his success. Lead by his housekeeper Mrs. Jeffries, they are able to chat with people that refuse to speak with the police and then feed him any pertinent information they have gathered without his knowing that they are snooping. I love this concept and think it's pretty original, at least from the many cozy's I've read.
In this installment, it's Christmastime and Inspector Witherspoon lands a cold case that threatens to ruin everyone's Christmas plans. The readers watch the frustration of everyone and how that affects the effort they put into sleuthing. Luckily, a couple of the women are determined not to let this one slip by and guilt the others into trying harder to solve the murder before Christmas arrives.
I really like the characters, but wish there were more descriptions of them. Yes, I admit that after 26 books in this series, it could be tiresome to describe the same characters over and over, but I've known other authors to a least include some snippets of information about the main characters. I also felt that the descriptions of non-recurring characters also could be a little stronger, as it was hard to picture most of them as I read. I was also hoping for more of a "Christmas" theme, other than just the characters thinking of their Christmas plans. Even just description of any decorations, or more of a Christmastime vibe would have been nice. This is just a personal preference and doesn't deter from the book.
As for the mystery itself, I was definitely throw off course by some of the red-herrings and was slightly surprised by the ending. The author did a great job of dropping tiny hints and the over-abundance of possible suspects definitely helped muddle the process.
I definitely recommend this book and series to cozy mystery lovers, especially those who enjoy a historical mystery as I do. I will be returning to this series to catch up on the previous books.
In this installment, it's Christmastime and Inspector Witherspoon lands a cold case that threatens to ruin everyone's Christmas plans. The readers watch the frustration of everyone and how that affects the effort they put into sleuthing. Luckily, a couple of the women are determined not to let this one slip by and guilt the others into trying harder to solve the murder before Christmas arrives.
I really like the characters, but wish there were more descriptions of them. Yes, I admit that after 26 books in this series, it could be tiresome to describe the same characters over and over, but I've known other authors to a least include some snippets of information about the main characters. I also felt that the descriptions of non-recurring characters also could be a little stronger, as it was hard to picture most of them as I read. I was also hoping for more of a "Christmas" theme, other than just the characters thinking of their Christmas plans. Even just description of any decorations, or more of a Christmastime vibe would have been nice. This is just a personal preference and doesn't deter from the book.
As for the mystery itself, I was definitely throw off course by some of the red-herrings and was slightly surprised by the ending. The author did a great job of dropping tiny hints and the over-abundance of possible suspects definitely helped muddle the process.
I definitely recommend this book and series to cozy mystery lovers, especially those who enjoy a historical mystery as I do. I will be returning to this series to catch up on the previous books.
October 31, 2017
"Mrs. Jeffries and the Three Wise Women" is a historical mystery set in England in the 1890's. It's the thirty-sixth book in a series. You don't need to read the previous books to understand this one, and this book didn't spoil the whodunit of the previous books. The story isn't heavily historical, though there were enough details to provide a historical feel.
Our crime-solving crew got a "cold case" to solve, and they're upset that their Christmas plans may be spoiled by the case. They've never handled a cold case before, and they're not sure they can solve it. The characters were engaging and realistic, though not highly complex. It's a clue-based puzzle mystery. While we started with a large number of suspects, the actual mystery didn't turn out to be very complex as the clues narrowed things down. I strongly suspected whodunit and the motive from the start. Still, the investigation was fun.
There was no sex. There was a very minor amount of bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this enjoyable mystery.
I received a free review copy of this book from the publisher.
Our crime-solving crew got a "cold case" to solve, and they're upset that their Christmas plans may be spoiled by the case. They've never handled a cold case before, and they're not sure they can solve it. The characters were engaging and realistic, though not highly complex. It's a clue-based puzzle mystery. While we started with a large number of suspects, the actual mystery didn't turn out to be very complex as the clues narrowed things down. I strongly suspected whodunit and the motive from the start. Still, the investigation was fun.
There was no sex. There was a very minor amount of bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this enjoyable mystery.
I received a free review copy of this book from the publisher.
February 22, 2020
Another wonderful cozy! I love the way the main characters develop over time and the reader has a glimpse into their personal thoughts and lives, making them seem like real people living real lives. Multi-faceted, fast paced but not to the point the reader feels rushed, with suspects you love to hate and a twist here and there along the way just to keep you on your toes. What's not to love, especially when you factor in the Christmas season.
Would you like a spot of tea to go with your bit of murder? Highly recommended cozy to cozy up with, be it a hot summer day in August or to get you in the mood for Christmas come December, you will love this book. Brava, Ms. Brightwell, brava!
Would you like a spot of tea to go with your bit of murder? Highly recommended cozy to cozy up with, be it a hot summer day in August or to get you in the mood for Christmas come December, you will love this book. Brava, Ms. Brightwell, brava!
November 27, 2017
While I like the characters in this universe, I found that there was way too much repetition in the book. It just felt padded, so it's not my favorite entry into the series.
January 8, 2021
Fun book great one for the Christmas holidays.
October 18, 2017
I loved it! This is the first mystery I've read in this series and am determined to find time to read the many earlier ones.
Each of the men and women working for Inspector Witherspoon have unique talents and contacts who would never answer questions from the police, yet help them give Witherspoon the best solve rate in London. Mrs. Jeffries is the housekeeper, the "brains" that puts together the various clues and tidbits that everyone collects. In turn, she and Mrs. Goodge, the cook, share the info with Constable Barnes, who is Witherspoon's partner. It works well, and the Inspector is never the wiser. Maybe. He is courting Lady Ruth, who helps out with the investigations as well.
This year, almost everyone has plans for Christmas, including Lady Ruth and Inspector Witherspoon. It upsets everyone, then, when Witherspoon and Barnes are given a murder to solve - and not just any murder, but one that another inspector wanted, fiddled around with, and gave it up as unsolvable. Not for this devoted group of people! Or is it unsolvable to them, too? Not one thinks it fair to wait so long and give it to Witherspoon just days before Christmas. Not one feels like working it in their usual manner, and the "three wise women" - this time NOT Mrs. Jeffries - take matters in hand and convince the crew to get back to work.
As the bits of information come in, Mrs. Jeffries puts it together with what she learns from the inspector, and shares with Constable Barnes what she can. One thing is for certain - the staff are reminded how blessed they are to be in Witherspoon's home when they hear how other families treat their folks!
I love the characters and the historical background, as well as the realistic actions, descriptions, and dialog. How could I have missed this series for so long? I am more than impressed with it - while there are many characters and much information, I appreciated just how detailed of a plot the author planned and executed! The man who was murdered didn't get a lot of sympathy; he was liked by very few because of his own behavior towards others. I did figure out whodunit after a couple clues were given close together, but was so fascinated that the author almost convinced me to look at others based on the clues! I very highly recommend this cozy mystery!
Each of the men and women working for Inspector Witherspoon have unique talents and contacts who would never answer questions from the police, yet help them give Witherspoon the best solve rate in London. Mrs. Jeffries is the housekeeper, the "brains" that puts together the various clues and tidbits that everyone collects. In turn, she and Mrs. Goodge, the cook, share the info with Constable Barnes, who is Witherspoon's partner. It works well, and the Inspector is never the wiser. Maybe. He is courting Lady Ruth, who helps out with the investigations as well.
This year, almost everyone has plans for Christmas, including Lady Ruth and Inspector Witherspoon. It upsets everyone, then, when Witherspoon and Barnes are given a murder to solve - and not just any murder, but one that another inspector wanted, fiddled around with, and gave it up as unsolvable. Not for this devoted group of people! Or is it unsolvable to them, too? Not one thinks it fair to wait so long and give it to Witherspoon just days before Christmas. Not one feels like working it in their usual manner, and the "three wise women" - this time NOT Mrs. Jeffries - take matters in hand and convince the crew to get back to work.
As the bits of information come in, Mrs. Jeffries puts it together with what she learns from the inspector, and shares with Constable Barnes what she can. One thing is for certain - the staff are reminded how blessed they are to be in Witherspoon's home when they hear how other families treat their folks!
I love the characters and the historical background, as well as the realistic actions, descriptions, and dialog. How could I have missed this series for so long? I am more than impressed with it - while there are many characters and much information, I appreciated just how detailed of a plot the author planned and executed! The man who was murdered didn't get a lot of sympathy; he was liked by very few because of his own behavior towards others. I did figure out whodunit after a couple clues were given close together, but was so fascinated that the author almost convinced me to look at others based on the clues! I very highly recommend this cozy mystery!
November 3, 2017
The household staff of Inspector Witherspoon usually faces two problems: solving a crime, and keeping up the pretense that they are not in any way helping the Scotland Yard inspector with his cases. In this case, however, they have a third problem as well--they all have their own Christmas holiday plans, and cannot get interested in the case at all. After all, Mr. Gilhaney was killed six weeks ago, and the case has been mismanaged by Witherspoon's rival, so the trail is cold and memories have faded. Only Mrs. Goodge, the cook, Luty Belle, a feisty American, and Ruth, Lady Cannonberry, the inspector's special friend--the three wise women of the title--persist until the others join them in their investigation.
November 11, 2017
Emily Brightwell continues to impress with book #36 in the Inspector and Mrs. Jeffries series. I loved the writing and details. This series never disappoints me and I thoroughly enjoyed this book and can't wait for book #37.
December 14, 2017
Victorian era cozy that has many likable characters. Inspector Witherspoon once again gets help from his household staffs finding a killer before Christmas holiday.
January 2, 2018
I loved this book! I just finished the previous Mrs. Jeffries not long ago, and then realized that this one was out too, so I ordered it. What a delight this book is! I was lucky enough to read it in and around the Christmas season, so it's Christmas theme appealed to me. But this book has a very different flavour than all the others in this long-running series. The title says it all, but what is so different here is that the three wise women take over the management of Witherspoon's latest case. The three women are Mrs. Goodge, Withespoon's awesome cook, Lady Ruth Canonberry, Mr. Witherspoon's female special friend, and Luty Cruikshank, a richer than God American woman who also helps on Witherspoon's cases. These three women are in all the books, and they are each enjoyable in their own right, but they are a fiormidable team when they decide to band together. No one else in the Witherspoon household is very pleased with Witherspoon's latest case. It's a six-week old murder and he is handed the case just a week before Christmas. Everyone has special plans for the holidays, and they don't want to spend the time it will take to investigate this one. The book is warm and funny and all the characters are remarkably real. I felt I was right there in Witherspoon's kitchen as they plotted to get this unsolveable case sorted. Victorian cozy mystery at its finest.
September 4, 2018
Christopher Gilhaney (an accountant) attends the Chase's Bonfire Night dinner party and insults every person at dinner. As a result of his rudeness, the dinner party breaks up early, much to the distress of Mrs. Chase, and everyone leaves. On his walk home, Gilhaney is shot, but no one heard or saw anything because of the noise and festivities of Guy Fawkes night. The police treat it as a robbery. Six weeks later, Christmas is approaching quickly and the death of Gilhaney remains unsolved, so Inspector Witherspoon is given the cold case. Mrs. Jeffries and friends have plans for Christmas so they are unhappy when they learn they are to solve a cold case.
I haven't read a Mrs. Jeffries mystery in a long time. I started reading them, but I was sidetracked. So many books, so little time. Many of you probably know, in these Victorian mysteries, Mrs. Jeffries and friends investigate and solve the murders, but Inspector Witherspoon is given credit for the task.
I liked Mrs. Jeffries and her friends and they all seem to be fond of Inspector Witherspoon. In the beginning, they were all discouraged because they thought their plans for Christmas were ruined, but I say, hey! Go with it. Get out there, investigate and solve that cold case! Well! They did! The going was difficult at first, but they got their second wind and solved the case. I like how all these friends work together and they were able to accomplish so much that the police aren't able to do.
This mystery was nicely written.
A BIG thank-you to Berkley Prime Crime for mailing this book to me. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I haven't read a Mrs. Jeffries mystery in a long time. I started reading them, but I was sidetracked. So many books, so little time. Many of you probably know, in these Victorian mysteries, Mrs. Jeffries and friends investigate and solve the murders, but Inspector Witherspoon is given credit for the task.
I liked Mrs. Jeffries and her friends and they all seem to be fond of Inspector Witherspoon. In the beginning, they were all discouraged because they thought their plans for Christmas were ruined, but I say, hey! Go with it. Get out there, investigate and solve that cold case! Well! They did! The going was difficult at first, but they got their second wind and solved the case. I like how all these friends work together and they were able to accomplish so much that the police aren't able to do.
This mystery was nicely written.
A BIG thank-you to Berkley Prime Crime for mailing this book to me. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
October 20, 2017
http://openbooksociety.com/article/mr...
Mrs. Jeffries and the Three Wise Women
Mrs. Jeffries #36
By Emily Brightwell
ISBN: 9780399584220
Author Website: emilybrightwell.com
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Jeanie
Synopsis:
Christopher Gilhaney isn’t a popular man, and he proves why once again when he insults every guest at Abigail Chase’s Guy Fawkes Night dinner party. When Gilhaney is shot dead under the cover of the night’s fireworks, his murder is deemed a robbery gone wrong. But when the case hasn’t been solved six weeks later, Inspector Witherspoon is called upon to find the killer—and quickly!
With Christmas almost here, Inspector Witherspoon and everyone in his household is upset at the possibility of having to cancel their holiday plans—all to solve a case that seems impossible. Only Luty Belle, Ruth, and Mrs. Goodge refuse to give up and let the crime become a cold case. In fact, the American heiress, the charming next-door neighbor, and the formidable cook use all of their persuasive powers to get the others on board, because these three wise women know justice doesn’t take time off for Christmas.
Review:
This is the first Mrs. Jeffries mystery that I’ve read, and it will not be the last! This is a fabulous cozy mystery set in the Victorian era of London with memorable characters and rich descriptions. It is a deliciously complex mystery with many characters and many bits of information documented slowly enough that the reader can try to understand and assimilate.
Everyone in Inspector Gerald Witherspoon’s household has plans for the Christmas holiday, including one couple going to France. Gerald is going with Lady Ruth Cannonberry to visit her friends in the country. At least they were until Witherspoon and Constable Barnes are given a homicide from six weeks earlier that was bungled by the inspector who wanted the case. Each person, from Constable Barnes to all the staff at home, grumbles about how it isn’t fair or right.
Mrs. Jeffries and the household staff, a couple friends of the family, and their friends have helped solve mysteries behind the scenes in the past for Inspector Witherspoon. Mrs. Jeffries gets new information from Gerald at the end of each day as a listening friend as well as the housekeeper. Each morning, she or Mrs. Goodge, the cook, converse with Constable Barnes and tells him what they have learned or shares questions they might have regarding a clue or person. Witherspoon, of course, knows nothing about this.
Needless to say, since everyone thought their Christmas as ruined, almost nobody has the heart to do their investigating. Some even spend part of their hours out and about doing what they wanted instead of what they typically do for an investigation. Even Mrs. Jeffries has never been as downhearted as this time. She – and the rest – need a boost, and I am so very impressed with the wise women, especially one of them.
There are many individuals who contribute to the investigations, thankful to have something of value to share for their town. Those who work at the Witherspoon home are very pleased to know that their day to day work for the inspector is appreciated, and are reminded of how the quality of their lives has improved when contrasted what they hear from staff at other homes. It is hard to have a favorite character as each is unique and talented. Ruth, perhaps, is exemplary; her encouragement to the staff is based on her sincere gratitude for the inspiration their past diligence and service for the Inspector has been to her. The dialog is realistic, and their action speak equally as loud. They are all defined as well as necessary for their roles. One thing I found challenging is how many characters there are! It may or may not have helped to begin reading earlier in the series, yet I am glad to have many earlier novels to find and enjoy.
The historical aspects of the time are excellent, feeding my appreciation for historical fiction. It appears to require considerable research. For example, one description I enjoyed is how the (male) secretary for Chief Superintendent Barrows reacts every time their new telephone rang, something I have read in other novels of the period.
The murdered man wasn’t well liked. After the hateful things he voiced to those at the dinner party, I’m surprised the guests and hosts didn’t all go after him! There seemed no end of possible culprits. As Inspector Witherspoon and Constable Barnes go about their investigation, and as his staff do their behind-the-scenes investigating, there were so many pieces of information that finding the relevant ones was challenging. The author proves that every person has a different point of view even when seeing and hearing the same thing. Further, she shows just how deeply embedded into the structure of the municipality is the criminal element and “who knows who did what”.
I did figure out who the real killer was based on a couple clues I found midway, but was so enamored of the author’s writing and other clues that I reconsidered and was almost swayed to change to a different suspect that sounded really guilty on paper. I was very satisfied with the resolution, and highly recommend this novel to those who have enjoyed previous Mrs. Jeffries’ mysteries, or appreciate well-written historical mysteries. This is an excellent example of a Victorian-era novel.
Mrs. Jeffries and the Three Wise Women
Mrs. Jeffries #36
By Emily Brightwell
ISBN: 9780399584220
Author Website: emilybrightwell.com
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Jeanie
Synopsis:
Christopher Gilhaney isn’t a popular man, and he proves why once again when he insults every guest at Abigail Chase’s Guy Fawkes Night dinner party. When Gilhaney is shot dead under the cover of the night’s fireworks, his murder is deemed a robbery gone wrong. But when the case hasn’t been solved six weeks later, Inspector Witherspoon is called upon to find the killer—and quickly!
With Christmas almost here, Inspector Witherspoon and everyone in his household is upset at the possibility of having to cancel their holiday plans—all to solve a case that seems impossible. Only Luty Belle, Ruth, and Mrs. Goodge refuse to give up and let the crime become a cold case. In fact, the American heiress, the charming next-door neighbor, and the formidable cook use all of their persuasive powers to get the others on board, because these three wise women know justice doesn’t take time off for Christmas.
Review:
This is the first Mrs. Jeffries mystery that I’ve read, and it will not be the last! This is a fabulous cozy mystery set in the Victorian era of London with memorable characters and rich descriptions. It is a deliciously complex mystery with many characters and many bits of information documented slowly enough that the reader can try to understand and assimilate.
Everyone in Inspector Gerald Witherspoon’s household has plans for the Christmas holiday, including one couple going to France. Gerald is going with Lady Ruth Cannonberry to visit her friends in the country. At least they were until Witherspoon and Constable Barnes are given a homicide from six weeks earlier that was bungled by the inspector who wanted the case. Each person, from Constable Barnes to all the staff at home, grumbles about how it isn’t fair or right.
Mrs. Jeffries and the household staff, a couple friends of the family, and their friends have helped solve mysteries behind the scenes in the past for Inspector Witherspoon. Mrs. Jeffries gets new information from Gerald at the end of each day as a listening friend as well as the housekeeper. Each morning, she or Mrs. Goodge, the cook, converse with Constable Barnes and tells him what they have learned or shares questions they might have regarding a clue or person. Witherspoon, of course, knows nothing about this.
Needless to say, since everyone thought their Christmas as ruined, almost nobody has the heart to do their investigating. Some even spend part of their hours out and about doing what they wanted instead of what they typically do for an investigation. Even Mrs. Jeffries has never been as downhearted as this time. She – and the rest – need a boost, and I am so very impressed with the wise women, especially one of them.
There are many individuals who contribute to the investigations, thankful to have something of value to share for their town. Those who work at the Witherspoon home are very pleased to know that their day to day work for the inspector is appreciated, and are reminded of how the quality of their lives has improved when contrasted what they hear from staff at other homes. It is hard to have a favorite character as each is unique and talented. Ruth, perhaps, is exemplary; her encouragement to the staff is based on her sincere gratitude for the inspiration their past diligence and service for the Inspector has been to her. The dialog is realistic, and their action speak equally as loud. They are all defined as well as necessary for their roles. One thing I found challenging is how many characters there are! It may or may not have helped to begin reading earlier in the series, yet I am glad to have many earlier novels to find and enjoy.
The historical aspects of the time are excellent, feeding my appreciation for historical fiction. It appears to require considerable research. For example, one description I enjoyed is how the (male) secretary for Chief Superintendent Barrows reacts every time their new telephone rang, something I have read in other novels of the period.
The murdered man wasn’t well liked. After the hateful things he voiced to those at the dinner party, I’m surprised the guests and hosts didn’t all go after him! There seemed no end of possible culprits. As Inspector Witherspoon and Constable Barnes go about their investigation, and as his staff do their behind-the-scenes investigating, there were so many pieces of information that finding the relevant ones was challenging. The author proves that every person has a different point of view even when seeing and hearing the same thing. Further, she shows just how deeply embedded into the structure of the municipality is the criminal element and “who knows who did what”.
I did figure out who the real killer was based on a couple clues I found midway, but was so enamored of the author’s writing and other clues that I reconsidered and was almost swayed to change to a different suspect that sounded really guilty on paper. I was very satisfied with the resolution, and highly recommend this novel to those who have enjoyed previous Mrs. Jeffries’ mysteries, or appreciate well-written historical mysteries. This is an excellent example of a Victorian-era novel.
May 19, 2024
Being assigned a six-week-old murder case after Nivens messed it up and right before Christmas has the crew in the dumps over their own ability to solve it. Listlessly, they start to ask questions, but their attention is elsewhere. Luty, Mrs. Goodge, and Lady Cannonberry are flummoxed over what to do to get the team back on track. Even Mrs. Jeffries is not paying this case much attention. Once the three women get the team working together again, things happen rapidly.
October 6, 2021
Luty, Ruth and Mrs. Goodge all played a big part in this cozy because they are the ones that had to rally the troops to get them on the hunt. I so enjoy spending time with all of these characters and the mysteries they "help" Inspector Witherspoon solve.
December 16, 2022
I listened to the audiobook of this one. I really enjoyed the story, but the narrator’s attempt at an American accent was distracting. While I would recommend the book, I wouldn’t recommend the audiobook.
May 14, 2025
I have read all the Mrs Jefferies books up to this one and had loved them all. Maybe because it has been a while since I visited with Mrs Jefferies and my tastes have changed? For whatever reason, I did not enjoy this book.
November 28, 2017
It has put me in the holiday spirit.
December 11, 2021
Another nice holiday story
November 25, 2019
This was a fantastic mystery!
I was on the edge of my seat with this vivid and cozy Victorian Christmas mystery. I really enjoy Emily Brightwell's writing style, plot lines, and all these characters.
I would normally not have jumped so far ahead in the series like this but Amazon gave me some kindle credits specifically to be used on a few of the later Mrs. Jeffries books so I chose this Christmas mystery and the very latest Christmas mystery.
I was on the edge of my seat with this vivid and cozy Victorian Christmas mystery. I really enjoy Emily Brightwell's writing style, plot lines, and all these characters.
I would normally not have jumped so far ahead in the series like this but Amazon gave me some kindle credits specifically to be used on a few of the later Mrs. Jeffries books so I chose this Christmas mystery and the very latest Christmas mystery.
October 31, 2018
My least favorite of the series which is a shame. The mystery was clever, and having so many suspects added a lot of depth to the plot. The main characters – the household staff and their compatriots – are charming as always and very realistic.
My enjoyment, however, was marred by what seemed to be the author’s preaching about women’s rights. It didn’t seem integral to the story, but rather a series of contrived add-on one-off comments and paragraphs that didn’t further the story and spoke to me of an agenda. I felt that the covenant between reader and author was broken – I was looking for an entertaining story – what was delivered was that, of course – but with other preaching thrown in. This is not what I look for in a cozy mystery unless it is deftly handled so that it is part of the plot and the personas, and not glaringly a pulpit.
For example, this sentence makes no sense to me. The half-dressed woman is a symbol of women’s equality? “…her attention focused on one of the figures: a woman wearing a wide jeweled collar, a diaphanous white skirt, and not much else. She couldn’t help but think that if women dressed like that in ancient Egypt that surely they must have been the equal of men; surely they must have had more rights and privileges than women in this time and place.”
There were a couple of good quotes about women: “She almost told him she hoped one day to have her own detective agency, but she wisely realized that would probably frighten him. She didn’t know a lot about men, but she had learned that most of them didn’t like the idea of a woman doing what she liked with her life.”
But there were also some egregious ones: “she tried to ignore the anger that pierced through her as she remembered the unfairness of being a female. [her cousin took and sold her house because] He was a man and family property went to males….Why on earth she was thinking of this now was a mystery.” Really? 36 books into the series and this comes out now? It just comes across as an agenda, either from the author, the publisher, or….
So, good story, good mystery, marred by what appears to be a social agenda.
My enjoyment, however, was marred by what seemed to be the author’s preaching about women’s rights. It didn’t seem integral to the story, but rather a series of contrived add-on one-off comments and paragraphs that didn’t further the story and spoke to me of an agenda. I felt that the covenant between reader and author was broken – I was looking for an entertaining story – what was delivered was that, of course – but with other preaching thrown in. This is not what I look for in a cozy mystery unless it is deftly handled so that it is part of the plot and the personas, and not glaringly a pulpit.
For example, this sentence makes no sense to me. The half-dressed woman is a symbol of women’s equality? “…her attention focused on one of the figures: a woman wearing a wide jeweled collar, a diaphanous white skirt, and not much else. She couldn’t help but think that if women dressed like that in ancient Egypt that surely they must have been the equal of men; surely they must have had more rights and privileges than women in this time and place.”
There were a couple of good quotes about women: “She almost told him she hoped one day to have her own detective agency, but she wisely realized that would probably frighten him. She didn’t know a lot about men, but she had learned that most of them didn’t like the idea of a woman doing what she liked with her life.”
But there were also some egregious ones: “she tried to ignore the anger that pierced through her as she remembered the unfairness of being a female. [her cousin took and sold her house because] He was a man and family property went to males….Why on earth she was thinking of this now was a mystery.” Really? 36 books into the series and this comes out now? It just comes across as an agenda, either from the author, the publisher, or….
So, good story, good mystery, marred by what appears to be a social agenda.
November 25, 2017
It took me a bit longer to get into this one than some of the others, but then again, it took most of the characters a while to get into it. Once again, Christmas is upon us and a murder has occurred. The problem, it occurred six weeks prior and given to Inspector Nivens as it looked like a robbery gone wrong. He, as is his want, has bungled the whole thing and now Witherspoon must try and solve the thing. Problem, none of his usual helpers want to help. They all have plans this Christmas and they don't want to give them up. It's up to Mrs. Goudge, Ruth, and Luty to give them swift kick on the butt they all need to get this case solved in time to keep their plans on track. Must admit, sort of strange to have them all complaining about getting a murder, but once they got their groove back, so did the book.
February 9, 2021
I always enjoy a Victorian mystery with Mrs. Jeffries and everyone in her household when they search for clues to help Inspector Witherspoon solve his latest case. This time everyone in the household has plans for the holidays when a case comes that may disrupt their plans. The three wise women in this tale are Mrs. Goodge, Luty and Ruth.
November 4, 2025
Brightwell’s plot stands out in this installment of the series, and I fell in love with it immediately. I’ll even go so far as to define this as a Christmas cozy mystery, but you can read it any time. So unique is the premise of the plot that you can’t help but pay attention from the first sentence.
Christopher Gilhaney is a guest at Gordon and Abigail Chase’s Guy Fawkes dinner party. He arrives intent on insulting every guest, and he does. All of them leave early, the party is a flop, and before the night ends, Gilhaney takes three bullets to the chest. The cops eagerly dub his death the outcome of a robbery, and a barely competent inspector gets the case only to admit six weeks later he can’t solve it.
The Witherspoon household, presided over by the lovable and often clueless Inspector Witherspoon, is in a fever pitch preparing for Christmas. Everyone has big plans for the holiday. Wiggins, the footman, plans to watch some soccer. Mrs. Jeffries planned to immerse herself in an ongoing archaeological exhibit. Phyllis was off to the theater. Witherspoon and his girlfriend, Lady Ruth Cannonberry, are off to see friends of hers on Boxing Day. Betsy, the former housemaid, and Smythe, the coachman, want to take their toddler daughter to Paris.
But Witherspoon draws the assignment to solve what is essentially already a cold case, and Scotland Yard, under pressure from the Home office, wants the case solved before Christmas. For that matter, so does Witherspoon. He had purchased a plethora of toys for his goddaughter, and he had hoped to spend the day watching her enjoy them. He doesn’t hide his resentment for his assignment. Mrs. Jeffries is so detached she can barely focus on the case, and everyone else determined early this is one they’d never solve. They essentially stopped trying.
But three women pushed back against the negativity. Believing that justice for all matters, Ruth, Luty, the American neighbor, and Mrs. Goodge, the Witherspoon cook, determine that they will solve the mystery if no one else in the house cares.
These three spearhead an attitude turnaround that proves spectacular. Because of them, the entire staff gets back in the game. Admittedly, you don’t experience Christmas Day with the group—something that would have made this even better—but you sense a festive spirit, and that’s enough to give this just the right holiday flair.
Christopher Gilhaney is a guest at Gordon and Abigail Chase’s Guy Fawkes dinner party. He arrives intent on insulting every guest, and he does. All of them leave early, the party is a flop, and before the night ends, Gilhaney takes three bullets to the chest. The cops eagerly dub his death the outcome of a robbery, and a barely competent inspector gets the case only to admit six weeks later he can’t solve it.
The Witherspoon household, presided over by the lovable and often clueless Inspector Witherspoon, is in a fever pitch preparing for Christmas. Everyone has big plans for the holiday. Wiggins, the footman, plans to watch some soccer. Mrs. Jeffries planned to immerse herself in an ongoing archaeological exhibit. Phyllis was off to the theater. Witherspoon and his girlfriend, Lady Ruth Cannonberry, are off to see friends of hers on Boxing Day. Betsy, the former housemaid, and Smythe, the coachman, want to take their toddler daughter to Paris.
But Witherspoon draws the assignment to solve what is essentially already a cold case, and Scotland Yard, under pressure from the Home office, wants the case solved before Christmas. For that matter, so does Witherspoon. He had purchased a plethora of toys for his goddaughter, and he had hoped to spend the day watching her enjoy them. He doesn’t hide his resentment for his assignment. Mrs. Jeffries is so detached she can barely focus on the case, and everyone else determined early this is one they’d never solve. They essentially stopped trying.
But three women pushed back against the negativity. Believing that justice for all matters, Ruth, Luty, the American neighbor, and Mrs. Goodge, the Witherspoon cook, determine that they will solve the mystery if no one else in the house cares.
These three spearhead an attitude turnaround that proves spectacular. Because of them, the entire staff gets back in the game. Admittedly, you don’t experience Christmas Day with the group—something that would have made this even better—but you sense a festive spirit, and that’s enough to give this just the right holiday flair.
November 26, 2019
It's a week before Christmas. Inspector Witherspoon and his entire household staff have plans for Christmas. This is not a good time for a murder! However, the Inspector is assigned a murder case, one that occurred six weeks earlier and was botched by the previous detective. Even housekeeper Mrs Jeffries can't get excited about investigating. Only the cook, Mrs Goodge, wealthy and elderly Luty, and the Inspector's special friend Ruth are willing to give up their holiday plans to pursue the cause of justice by helping Witherspoon solve the case. They have to convince the rest of the staff to stop worrying about themselves and think of the Inspector. It takes a lot of cajoling and even insulting to get the crew investigating. Who shot Christopher Gilhaney three times on Guy Fawkes Night? Having recently moved back to London, Gilhaney is a mystery. A "financial genius," he has been hired to examine and oversee the finances of a building firm. A dinner with several of the firm's owners and shareholders turns out to be disastrous as Gilhaney insults most of them. Upon leaving the dinner, Gilhaney is murdered. However, those who knew Gilhaney when he was growing up in the poverty in London and later after making a success of himself in Manchester testify that he is a gentle, caring man. Such conflicting views of the man and the suspects threaten to sink the case, until Inspector Witherspoon's staff go into action and find the clues that let the Inspector find the murderer. And all before Christmas!!! The divide between families with "ancestral rights" and those with "new money" is on full display. Warning: the cover art has nothing to do with the story!
January 2, 2021
Not my cup of tea. I wanted a light Christmas murder and this book provided that.
This is the second book in this series that I have read. The format of these books does not work for me.
A contemporary police procedural is similar with different members of the team investigating different aspects of the crime then coming together to share information. I have only read two in this series. For some reason I get impatient with the retelling to the group in these books but not in contemporary books. Just get on with it.
Other minor things may have contributed to my impatience. I remember as a character walked up to a home they had not visited before I thought, "Oh, goodie. I just can't wait to learn the color of the door." And, as in my memory of every other new home visited in the book, I was shortly told the color of the door, the trim, and the walls.
I did not know the differences between carriages, Hansom cabs, Growlers, Omnibuses and other assorted modes of transport in Victorian London. It took far too long for the author to clarify that a Hansom cab only carried two passengers, an important feature.
I added a new tag, "read during Covid19" because I recognize that I may be too frayed to review objectively.
I do think this series of books could be reined in a bit and make a very entertaining TV series.
More than you ever wanted to know about Cab Cultures in Victorian London: Horse-Drawn Cabs, Users and the City, ca 1830-1914.
http://etheses.whiterose.ac.uk/8047/1...
https://horsesandhistory.wordpress.co...
This is the second book in this series that I have read. The format of these books does not work for me.
A contemporary police procedural is similar with different members of the team investigating different aspects of the crime then coming together to share information. I have only read two in this series. For some reason I get impatient with the retelling to the group in these books but not in contemporary books. Just get on with it.
Other minor things may have contributed to my impatience. I remember as a character walked up to a home they had not visited before I thought, "Oh, goodie. I just can't wait to learn the color of the door." And, as in my memory of every other new home visited in the book, I was shortly told the color of the door, the trim, and the walls.
I did not know the differences between carriages, Hansom cabs, Growlers, Omnibuses and other assorted modes of transport in Victorian London. It took far too long for the author to clarify that a Hansom cab only carried two passengers, an important feature.
I added a new tag, "read during Covid19" because I recognize that I may be too frayed to review objectively.
I do think this series of books could be reined in a bit and make a very entertaining TV series.
More than you ever wanted to know about Cab Cultures in Victorian London: Horse-Drawn Cabs, Users and the City, ca 1830-1914.
http://etheses.whiterose.ac.uk/8047/1...
https://horsesandhistory.wordpress.co...
Displaying 1 - 30 of 151 reviews